The 16 Best Cheap Restaurants in Chicago

Jim's Original is a renowned hot dog stand in Chicago that offers a variety of delicious hot dogs and comfort food. It's known for its fast service and affordable prices, making it a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of food and service at Jim's Original. Some key points from the reviews include:

• The best hot dog place in Chicago with affordable prices and free fries.
• Great historic spot with quick and friendly service, delicious Polish sausage, and fresh, hot fries.
• A popular touristy spot offering fast and cheap meals with tasty sausages, refreshing peppers, and well-seasoned fries.
• Highly recommended for a low-cost, fresh meal, especially for those looking for a quick bite.

If you're in the mood for a quick and satisfying meal, Jim's Original is the place to be. Whether you're grabbing food on the go or enjoying a late-night snack, this iconic hot dog stand has you covered. Check them out for a taste of Chicago's best hot dogs!

Eleven City Diner is a bustling diner located in Chicago that offers a variety of service options such as kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Their highlights include fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. Known for being popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Eleven City Diner prides itself on its diverse offerings ranging from alcohol and beer to vegetarian options and wine. The dining options at Eleven City Diner include breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, catering, and more.

• Customers have raved about the fantastic modern Jewish deli offering delicious food and a very friendly staff
• One patron praised the amazing service from their server, Johnathan, and the creative drink menu
• Another guest enjoyed the food but felt neglected in terms of service, despite fresh and big portions
• Visitors highlight the beautiful brunch, amazing challah bread, and family-friendly vibe, with a variety of menu options

Lou Mitchell's is a renowned breakfast restaurant located in Chicago, IL. The business is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. Diners can enjoy a variety of offerings like beer, cocktails, coffee, and comfort food. Customers appreciate the outdoor seating and dine-in options.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Impressed by the atmosphere, quick service, and friendly staff.
• A European visitor praised the big portions and great staff professionalism.
• Highly recommended for amazing omelettes, reasonable prices, and top-notch service.
• Despite higher prices, customers enjoyed the comfy atmosphere, good food, and friendly service.

Big Star is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, known for its exceptional menu and great service options. Customers can enjoy a variety of offerings, including organic dishes, comfort food, and vegetarian options. The restaurant is also recognized for its great cocktails and fast service.

Some customers have shared their positive experiences at Big Star:

• Had a great experience, incredibly fast kitchen and bar service on top of friendly staff. Enough variety in the menu with good drink specials. Manager went the extra mile to help with a gift card issue.
• Enjoyed the Panza taco and other menu items. A great spot for a quick bite or cocktail. Repeat customer over the years.
• Food is amazing, especially the Nachos and strawberry margarita pitcher. Highly recommended for the delicious dishes and drinks.
• Loved the dog-friendly policy and free kids menu. Excellent food options like nachos and street tacos. Friendly staff and great atmosphere, definitely recommended.

Cafecito is a charming Cuban restaurant located in Chicago that offers a variety of delightful services. Customers can enjoy options like Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in to savor their flavorful meals. The restaurant is known for its Fast service, Great coffee, and Great tea selection, making it a popular choice for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner—whether dining solo or with friends. The dining environment is described as Casual, Cosy, and Trendy, catering to a diverse crowd, from tourists to university students.

Here are some key reviews from customers:

• 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. Neither friendly nor rude. Coffee was outstanding. Good size portions. A really nice, casual option that is a great value.
• Este lugar es muy acogedor, la comida es deliciosa. Pedi un platillo de ropa vieja y wow! Un sazón espectacular y auténtico. Este lugar 100% recomendado.

Devil Dawgs on State is a popular hot dog restaurant located in Chicago, IL. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure a great dining experience for their customers. Some of the key highlights of the business include no-contact delivery, fast service, and a menu filled with comfort food, quick bites, and vegetarian options.

Customers have left numerous positive reviews, highlighting the following key points:

• Great for a quick, cheap meal with delicious Chicago dogs and chili cheese fries
• Fun hot dogs, fresh fries, and thick milkshakes - a must-try!
• Tasty food, fast and friendly service, and a cute location
• Fresh and delicious Chicago hot dogs, crispy fries, and accommodating prices

With a rating of 4.4 stars, Devil Dawgs on State is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike looking for a satisfying and tasty meal.

Don's Grill is a beloved breakfast restaurant in Chicago known for its fast service and great coffee. Customers appreciate the comfort food offerings and quick bite options available. The dine-in experience is described as casual and cozy, making it a favorite spot for everyone from tourists to university students.

• Warm and welcoming atmosphere with fresh and delicious food
• Great prices and amazing tasting food
• Fast service and affordable prices, open 24 hours
• Easily located with good food and quick service

Carnitas Don Pedro is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Chicago, offering a range of services to its customers. Whether you prefer takeaway or dine-in options, this establishment has got you covered. Known for its delicious carnitas, fresh made tortillas, and flavorful salsas, it's no surprise that customers keep coming back for more.

The atmosphere at Carnitas Don Pedro is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a great spot for everyone, from groups to tourists to university students. If you're planning a visit, rest assured that they accept reservations and while there may be a wait, it's totally worth it.

Customer reviews rave about the fantastic service and unbeatable food at Carnitas Don Pedro. Here are the key points from some of the reviews:

• Consistent quality since 2010, great service, and delicious carnitas
• Fast and friendly staff, quaint atmosphere, and worth the wait
• Amazing carnitas with original flavors, warm tortillas, and various food options
• Delicious food, fast service, but lacked in follow-up on coffee refill

Next time you're in Chicago and craving authentic Mexican cuisine, don't miss out on Carnitas Don Pedro for a memorable dining experience!

Ever Restaurant is a renowned establishment in Chicago that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant is known for its great cocktails, great dessert, and an extensive wine list. Customers rave about the exceptional service and the exquisite flavors presented in each dish.

• An unforgettable experience with remarkable flavor pairings.
• Outstanding service and attention to detail for a well-rounded dining experience.
• Beautifully crafted dishes, creative presentations, and exceptional staff.

Patrons praise the friendly and knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable visit. The restaurant's cosy and romantic atmosphere, coupled with impeccable service, create a dining experience that exceeds expectations. Whether it's a special occasion or a desire for a truly unique culinary adventure, Ever Restaurant stands out as a top choice for food enthusiasts.

Jimmy's Gyros & Grill is a popular fast food restaurant located in Chicago, offering a variety of delicious options for customers. The business provides services such as kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in to cater to different preferences. Known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Jimmy's Gyros & Grill ensures a satisfying dining experience for all.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Jimmy's Gyros & Grill, highlighting a few key points:

• Delicious and juicy gyro sandwich
• Good prices and large portions
• Classic Chicago style food
• Fast and friendly service

With a rating of 4.5 from 933 reviews, Jimmy's Gyros & Grill continues to impress customers with its flavorful offerings and excellent service. Visit their website for more information and to place an order now!

White Palace Grill is a classic diner located in Chicago, known for its 24-hour service and delicious comfort food. Offering a variety of options such as coffee, quick bites, and small plates, this establishment is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it a great spot for solo dining.

Customer reviews highlight the fast service and great coffee at White Palace Grill. Some have praised the friendly staff and comfort food that leaves you feeling satisfied but not greasy. While there may be room for improvement in terms of ambiance and service, the overall experience is positive for many visitors.

• Old school diner with friendly staff and comfort food
• Generous portions without feeling greasy
• A place for a quick meal or a relaxing dining experience

Cafecito is a charming Cuban restaurant located in the heart of Chicago. Known for its fast service and great coffee, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, as well as catering services.

Customers rave about the delicious Cuban coffee and Cuban food at Cafecito. One reviewer mentioned that the cafecito is the tastiest in the city, while another was pleasantly surprised by the vegan menu offerings. The friendly staff, pleasant atmosphere, and authentic flavors keep customers coming back for more.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

• Tastiest cafecito in the city
• Great vegan menu options
• Delicious Cuban food and coffee
• Friendly staff and pleasant atmosphere

If you're in the mood for a delicious Cuban meal or a quick coffee pick-me-up, Cafecito is the place to be!

Griddle 24 is a charming diner located in Chicago, offering a wide range of services to its customers. The establishment provides various options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in for a versatile dining experience. Customers can enjoy fast service and indulge in great dessert options.

The diner is popular for serving delectable meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it suitable for solo dining or group gatherings. Additionally, vegetarian options are available, ensuring inclusivity for all guests. The warm and casual atmosphere makes it a favorite spot among family-friendly customers, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, and university students.

Customer reviews rave about Griddle 24, with a rating of 4.3. Here are some summarized reviews:

• This place is a gem! Delicious food, comfortable booths, and reasonable prices. The menu is extensive and everything tried so far is tasty. Great for brunch and dinner.
• A late-night gem with friendly service and enjoyable dishes. Perfect for a post-bar meal.
• Decent burgers, friendly staff, and attentive owner/manager. Great customer service and welcoming atmosphere.

Express Grill is a local hotspot in Chicago known for its delicious hot dogs and fast service. They offer popular options for lunch and dinner, making it a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. Customers rave about the ability to customize their orders, like having their Polish Sausage split and grilled to perfection. The quick service and affordable prices keep customers coming back for more.

Some key points from customer reviews:

• Customizable orders, such as splitting and grilling Polish Sausage
• Quick service with affordable prices
• Great spot for a late-night or after-bar meal

Taste of Chicago Restaurant offers a delightful experience for patrons looking for classic American cuisine in Chicago. The restaurant provides delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for various dining needs. Known for its coffee, comfort food, and small plates, guests can enjoy a quick bite or a leisurely meal in a casual and cosy atmosphere.

With a rating of 4.4 stars, customers have shared their experiences at Taste of Chicago. Some key points from the reviews include:

• Delicious tacos with amazing freshness and flavors.
• Issues with cleanliness, expensive prices, and food quality.
• Difficulties with online ordering and customer service.
• Highly recommended for burgers and friendly customer service.

Overall, Taste of Chicago Restaurant provides a diverse menu and welcoming ambiance for individuals and groups alike!

LÝRA is a top-rated Greek restaurant in Chicago known for its exceptional service, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious food. The restaurant offers a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and more. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Some key points from customer reviews:

• Thoroughly impressed by exceptional service, warm hospitality, and personalized recommendations.
• Favorite dishes include the lamb gyro, half chicken, and deconstructed pasta.
• Delightful spot with sumptuous dishes, highlight being the light show at 11 PM.
• Great ambience, prompt service, and must-try dishes like octopus and Wagyu beef.

With a rating of 4.1 and 937 reviews to back it up, LÝRA promises a memorable dining experience for all guests. Give it a try and indulge in the flavors of Greece right in the heart of Chicago!