The 16 Best Inexpensive Restaurants in Chicago

Looking for delicious yet affordable dining options in the Windy City? Look no further! Whether you're a local or just visiting, finding a budget-friendly meal in Chicago is easier than you think. From cozy cafes to trendy eateries, there are plenty of inexpensive restaurants to choose from in this diverse city.
For those looking to enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank, consider the following factors when choosing a restaurant:
- Price range
- Menu variety
- Location
- Atmosphere
- Customer reviews
Ready to discover the best inexpensive restaurants in Chicago? Check out our list below for some fantastic dining options that won't empty your wallet.
- 1. Au Cheval
- 2. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
- 3. Little Goat Diner
- 4. The Purple Pig Restaurant
- 5. Jim's Original
- 6. Eleven City Diner
- 7. Lou Mitchell's
- 8. The Berghoff Restaurant
- 9. Big Star
- 10. Devil Dawgs on State
- 11. Don's Grill
- 12. Ever Restaurant
- 13. White Palace Grill
- 14. Maxwell Street Depot
- 15. Griddle 24
- 16. LÝRA

- Monday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–11:15 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–10:15 PM
1. Au Cheval
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Exceptional service with helpful and friendly staff
- Delicious food, especially the hot honey chicken wings and burgers
- Great cocktails and atmosphere
- Long wait times, but worth it for the quality of food

- Monday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Thursday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Friday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–1 AM
2. Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Information and Reviews
- Classic Chicago hot dog with an abundance of veggies and light bun
- Specially loved hot dogs and Italian beef sub by a satisfied customer
- Raved about Chicago-style hot dog and heavenly chocolate cake
- Cheese fries stealing the show in a deluxe counter-service restaurant experience
With options for outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, drive-through, and more, Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago caters to every customer's needs. So, stop by this popular spot and indulge in some of the best fast food Chicago has to offer!

- Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–9 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–8 PM
3. Little Goat Diner
Information and Reviews
- The service was very friendly, and the food was delicious. Accommodating to dietary restrictions. Highly recommended!
- Generous portion sizes with flavorful dishes. Great service and a cozy atmosphere. Pricey but worth it.
- Superbly delightful and scrumptious food with a pleasant atmosphere. Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks.
- Impressive Asian fusion twists with creative specials. Cozy atmosphere and attentive service make for a great dining experience.
With a rating of 4.6 based on 6421 reviews, Little Goat Diner continues to attract visitors looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in the heart of Chicago.

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
4. The Purple Pig Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- The staff and food receive high praise, with attentive service and well-balanced, flavorful dishes.
- The bar-facing kitchen provides an entertaining dining experience, with visually appealing dishes like the tuna tartar.
- Generous portions, excellent cocktails, and overall outstanding service make it an easy recommendation for visitors.
With a stellar rating of 4.6, The Purple Pig Restaurant continues to impress customers with its unique atmosphere and delectable offerings. Be sure to visit this establishment for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

- Monday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Tuesday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Wednesday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Thursday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Friday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Saturday: 6 AM–1 AM
- Sunday: 6 AM–1 AM
5. Jim's Original
Information and Reviews
- The best hot dog place in Chicago! Affordable price with free fries. The sausage and peppers were really good. The service was attentive and the staff ensured a great experience for the customer.
- Great historic spot with quick service and delicious Polish sausage. Ample parking available. A fantastic value for the price.
- A tourist favorite with super fast service and budget-friendly options. The Polish sausage sandwich was a hit and the fries were hot and well-seasoned.
Whether you're a local looking for a quick bite or a tourist exploring the area, Jim's Original is a must-visit for a taste of classic Chicago street food.

- Monday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–4 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–4 PM
6. Eleven City Diner
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight a few key points:
- Fantastic modern Jewish deli with tasty knishes and latkes.
- Efficient, professional, and personable staff.
- Food is really good with fresh and big portions, but service can sometimes be slow.
- Amazing challah bread, fun atmosphere, and great vibes overall, with huge portions that offer value for money.
Overall, Eleven City Diner promises an experience that will make customers want to come back again and again, thanks to its delicious food, welcoming staff, and vibrant atmosphere.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Thursday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Friday: 6 AM–2 PM
- Saturday: 7 AM–2 PM
- Sunday: 7 AM–2 PM
7. Lou Mitchell's
Information and Reviews
- Customers love the wonderful atmosphere and friendly service.
- The food portions are large and delicious, leaving guests full and satisfied.
- Many appreciate the historic vibe and fast service offered at Lou Mitchell's.
- Overall, visitors agree that Lou Mitchell's is a must-visit destination for a memorable breakfast experience.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: Closed
8. The Berghoff Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at The Berghoff Restaurant. Here are some key points from their feedback:
- This is a historic German restaurant in Chicago, specializing in comfort food and a cozy atmosphere. The place was beautifully decorated during Christmas time, perfect for family gatherings and delicious meals.
- One visitor praised the variety of house-brewed beers and authentic German dishes, highlighting the Helles beer as a must-try. While some food items were not consistent, the overall experience was enjoyable and worth returning for.
- Another customer raved about the quality of the food, especially the sauerkraut and traditional German dishes. The friendly staff and quick service added to the overall positive dining experience.
With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 4000 reviews, The Berghoff Restaurant continues to impress patrons with its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a relaxing dinner, or a memorable dining experience, this establishment has something for everyone.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
9. Big Star
Information and Reviews
Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Fast kitchen and bar service with a friendly staff
- Good variety in the menu without feeling overwhelming
- Excellent drink specials
- Delicious food options like Nachos and various tacos

- Monday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–10 PM
10. Devil Dawgs on State
Information and Reviews
Customers have left rave reviews about their experience at Devil Dawgs on State:
- Great for a quick cheap meal. The Chicago dog and bucket of chili cheese fries were heavy and delicious!
- Fun hot dogs and fresh fries. The jumbo spicy dogs are immensely superior. Don't miss out on the cheesy fries!
- Loved the fries and cheese bacon hot dog. Fast and friendly service in a cute location.
- The Chicago hot dogs were freshly made and not soggy. The crispy yet buttery fries were a hit!

- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
11. Don's Grill
Information and Reviews
- Welcoming experience with fresh and tasty food at great prices.
- Hidden gem with kind service and authentic greasy diner meals.
- Ol' skool dining car atmosphere offering a great spot to grab some food.
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere with simple, delicious, and clean offerings.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 5–10 PM
- Wednesday: 5–10 PM
- Thursday: 5–10 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 5–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed
12. Ever Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about their time at Ever Restaurant, with reviews highlighting:
- An unforgettable experience with complex flavors and remarkable pairings
- A well-rounded restaurant that values every customer and detail
- Outstanding presentation and exceptional staff creating a unique dining experience
- One of the best dining experiences with friendly and knowledgeable staff and beautifully crafted dishes

- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
13. White Palace Grill
Information and Reviews
Here are a few key points from customer reviews:
- Old school 24hr diner with friendly staffs, regulars, and comfort food.
- Big menu with sandwiches as specialties and fresh fruit salad options.
- Decent food at reasonable prices, like the patty melt with soup.
- Positive experience with quick service, delicious food, and an intimate atmosphere.

- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
14. Maxwell Street Depot
Information and Reviews
- Convenient location after events at the Guaranteed Rate Field
- Great prices for filling meals
- Amazing grilled onions and friendly staff
- Cash-only policy, open 24/7, and ample parking
With its casual atmosphere and group-friendly crowd, Maxwell Street Depot continues to satisfy locals and visitors alike with its iconic food offerings.

- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
15. Griddle 24
Information and Reviews
- Excellent variety of menu options
- Quick and friendly service
- Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
If you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Griddle 24 is the place to be. They are also known for being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and popular among tourists and university students. With a 4.3 rating and almost 2000 reviews, it's clear that Griddle 24 is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

- Monday: 5 PM–12 AM
- Tuesday: 5 PM–12 AM
- Wednesday: 5 PM–12 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–12 AM
- Saturday: 4 AM–12 AM
- Sunday: 4 AM–12 AM
16. LÝRA
Information and Reviews
LÝRA is a renowned Greek restaurant located in Chicago, offering a wide range of culinary experiences for its patrons. The restaurant provides various services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, regular delivery, and takeaway, making it convenient for guests to enjoy their delectable dishes.
Patrons can indulge in the great dessert options and enjoy live music while savoring their meals. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, accommodating solo diners as well. Additionally, the establishment offers amenities like a bar on-site and gender-neutral toilets for the comfort of its guests.
According to 937 reviews with an impressive 4.1 rating, customers have shared their delightful experiences at LÝRA. Here are some key points from their reviews:
- Exceptional service and hospitality with personalized attention.
- Flavorful and delicious food options, such as lamb gyro and deconstructed pasta.
- Ambiance that creates a vibrant and enjoyable dining experience.
- Prompt service, great variety of cocktails, and modern setting at the bar.
Experience the culinary magic at LÝRA and enjoy a memorable dining experience in the heart of Chicago!
Map of Inexpensive Restaurants in Chicago
Are you looking for affordable dining options in the bustling city of Chicago? Look no further! Explore our comprehensive map that showcases all the inexpensive restaurants scattered throughout the city. From tasty pizza joints to cozy cafes, there is something for every palate and budget in the Windy City. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
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