Whether you’re just not feeling Ferris or not on a dining plan, these eats will take care of your hunger without breaking the bank.
1. Doaba Deli
Four curries, the best naan you’ll eat, a side salad, and a warm cup of chai for $7 sound reasonable? Doaba Deli might not be the most glamorous restaurant on the UWS but its certainly one of the best and most reasonably priced. There’s a reason it’s a cabbie favorite.
2. Saiguette
Who would’ve thought that some of the best pho in the city would be blocks from our campus and under $10. Served in tupperware and plastic bags, Saiguette definitely isn’t fancy but it certainly satisfies. Stick to the original beef round and brisket pho; unless, of course, you’re trying to eat tripe, tendon, beef balls and want to spend an extra $2. Their banh mi’s are awesome too.
3. Streetbird Rotisserie
So most of the food at Streetbird is over $10, to be quite honest. What you really want to get is the Crispy Bird Sandwich and its $9.50.
4. Silvana
Silvana is the shit. By day its got the best chicken shawarma around, by night its got a speakeasy vibe complete with live music and hookah. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but if you’re looking for suggestions check out the falafel ($6) and the aforementioned shawarma ($9).
5. Freda’s Caribbean and Soul
Everything is homemade and tastes like it is in the best way possible. Entrees come with peas and rice, and two sides and cost somewhere between $6.50 and $11.99. Get the brown chicken stew ($7.99) for maximum Caribbean love.
6. Taqueria y Fonda La Mexicana
Taqueria y Fonda definitely has the best Mexican food you’re going to find around campus. It’s relatively inexpensive and you feel like you’re in on a secret. Go for lunch to get the best deals.
7. La Toulousiane
Advertised as a patisserie, this place might not be the first place you think of for a meal. However, their sandwiches are amazing (think authentic crusty baguettes) and cheap ($6.50). Plus, La Toulousiane has bomb ass chocolate almond croissants to round out your French meal.
8. Milano Market
Milano’s is no secret. It’s good, reliable, and relatively inexpensive if you play your cards right. Get a salad if you’re fronting like you’re healthy, or treat yo’ self to one of their legendary sandwiches. Both options will run around $10 (assuming you don’t get all types of add-ins).
9. Chipotle
Not much to be said about this one; you know it, you love it. Enjoy it. Dive into your burrito or bowl and experience its harmonic flavors without too much guilt.
10. Westside Market
A neighborhood and campus staple, this 24/7 establishment has everything you need to satisfy your hunger. Whether cooking up something from scratch or grabbing something from the prepared food section, you can’t go wrong at Westside. I recommend picking up one of their soups and a roll for a complete meal under $5.