New York is without question the largest melting pot one could think of in the US. With a variation of peoples that have inhabited the Big Apple, we are surrounded by various cultures, ideas, styles, and cuisine.
Food is so integral here – it is still the best way to get to know a culture. And, it is also such a source of pride for different people, that you can’t go too far without bumping into a dining establishment, whether it be upscale, a stand, or even a food truck.
As this is also one of the more expensive places to do anything, it might be a challenge from time to time to get quality meals, or even bites, and with the help of Reddit.com, and further research from NY.Eater.com, we’ve compiled a small list of ideas, should you be thinking about trekking in the City while on a budget, and ones that won’t limit you to 2 Bro’s Pizza. (They aren’t that bad, though. For dollar slices, it’s a good post-drink bite.)
- Rudy’s Bar and Grill – How can you go wrong with free hotdogs?! And with affordable beer and a chill ambiance, you have a winner right in Hell’s Kitchen.
- Pommes Frites NYC – A friend and I were once stuck there – his car broke down. We were there (a little buzzed) for a few hours, right after coming from a birthday party. But, I gotta admit – it was nice to be right outside the popular Belgian fry shop. If you like fries, this is the go-to joint tucked in the Village, with a bevy of sauces to boot.
- Keens Steak House – Munching on some free meatballs, wings and shrimp during happy hour isn’t uncommon on this W 36th watering hole. And hard boiled eggs are available all day long. Oh. Did I mention these were free?
- Agozar NYC – Everyday, a purchase of a drink can get you a second one, or tapas served to you for free. That’s not at all a bad deal, eh? Just show up between 5:00 to 8:00 PM.
- Dive Bar NYC – Do you like mussels? (Seriously though, who doesn’t?) But if you do, come by Fridays around 5 PM, because that’s when they start handing some out for free. Oh, yes!
- Halal Guys – Searching for the Halal Guys should only lead you to the iconic 53rd and 6th location. Their running advertisement has been that long line that forms every night, right across the Hilton hotel. But an odd misconception is that the cart across the street is a competitor… It’s not. They own that cart, too. So you have a choice to experience the wait, or get the same plate at a quicker pace. Six dollars should get you a combo platter, chewy-sweet-warm pita bread, and that white sauce is just heavenly.
- Tai Pan Bakery – From pork buns, to intricate cakes and even hot dogs in weirdly delicious pastry, Asian bakeries are a godsend. And, Tai Pan is one of the best in New York. To get an 80-cent piece of bread, sweet or savory, to go along with cheap, good iced coffee or tapioca tea. Mmmm.
- Continental NYC – Where else can you get $5 shots in Manhattan, or anywhere? I don’t really know. But I’d rather get them from here. Yes, the bouncer can be a huge jackass, and that’s an understatement. But once you’re in, preferably with a group of friends, a good time is easy to be had. There’s always good music, and the shots are freakin’ five bucks! C’mon!
