Living in Burlington, it’s hard to not want to eat out everyday. It’s literally one of the best cities in the U.S.A for food, with something for everyone to enjoy. The one problem is that not every restaurant is cheap, and not everyone is willing to break the bank for one good meal. Luckily Burlington has many cheap eats to offer to the broke college students that inhabit the city. So, next time you and some friends jonesing for something good check out these local favorites:
1. Skinny Pancake
A Burlington classic, Skinny Pancake has a wide menu with many cheap options if you’re looking for a quick bite. Lots of their crepes are below ten dollars, but are still delicious. My personal favorite is the Brownies in Bed Crepe, which is essentially a brownie sundae in a crepe. Trust me, it’s as good as it sounds.
2. Bueno Y Sano
Good food, fresh ingredients, and reasonable prices? What more do you need? Bueno Y Sano should be on every college student’s’ restaurant bucket list. My favorite is the BBQ pulled pork with sour cream on the side, but they have so many options that you could probably order something different every time you go.
3. Hong’s Chinese Dumplings
Hong’s is an amazing dumpling stand parked along Church Street. If you see a long line of people, you’re probably close by. The dumplings are made right in front of you, and with 6 dumplings for only 7 dollars how could you go wrong? Seriously though, they’re ridiculously good and everyone has to try them. They’re perfect for the broke college student.
4. Pearl Street Diner
Pearl Street Diner is amazing because their menu has all the classics on top of some more unique dishes. Their pumpkin pancakes are ridiculously delicious, and are usually served with vanilla cream cheese frosting. Seriously dank. If that’s not enough, almost everything on their menu is less than 10 dollars but still seriously good. Pearl Street Diner is perfect for some good morning cheap eats.
5. New World Tortilla
A great place to swing by for a burrito! Food is tasty and usually comes out quick. If you don’t know what to order try the Thai Chicken or the Steak and Cheese, I’ve had both and they’re both incredible.
Bonus: the burritos are massive!
6. Pho Hong
Pho Hong is a delicious Vietnamese restaurant that is perfect for the broke college student. It’s cheap but still delicious, and they deliver! So if you’re getting bored of burgers and pizza you have to try Pho Hong. Their spring rolls are to die for, but honestly everything they have is amazing.
Bonus: it’s BYOB (bring your own booze).
7. The Shopping Bag
This is the place to go if you have a really bad hangover. Their burgers are cheap, huge, and loaded with grease. And, according to many, are the ultimate way to cure a hangover. Delicious burgers with magical healing qualities- sounds great.
Tip: newbies beware, you have to order and pay for your food at the cash register before you begin eating.
8. Red Onion
If you can handle waiting in line then you have to check out Red Onion. Their sandwiches are legendary, and because of that the place is usually packed. But, they have some of the best sandwiches in Vermont, possibly the country. If you don’t know what to order try the classic Red Onion Sandwich, it’s famous for a reason.
9. Handy’s Lunch
Handy’s is a 3 generation family diner that is unbelievably amazing. Always friendly and accommodating, Handy’s is a hidden gem in the Burlington brunch scene. Handy’s is an old school diner and only has seating at the counter. But, trust me, Handy’s is amazing and everyone should try it.
10. Feldman’s Bagels
These bagels are the perfect size, perfectly chewy, and just all around delicious. Feldman’s are the closest thing to New York bagels in Burlington, but lucky for us they’re not New York prices. Feldman’s is great for a quick bite with friends or to just grab a bagel and go, no matter what you won’t be disappointed.
11. Manhatten Pizza and Pub
Manhatten’s is a great place to grab a slice and listen to some good live music. They have great pizza and tons of options. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed and aren’t sure what you want I highly recommend the buffalo chicken pizza.
12. Pingala Café and Eatery
Pingala is a vegan’s heaven. Not only do they offer a wide menu, but it’s all completely vegan, and delicious. They have everything from pancakes to quesadillas, and their appetizers are to die for. The staff is friendly and always offers great tips for ordering. Pingala’s is a great place to eat if you don’t want to break your bank account but want a healthier meal.
Bonus: Pingala also has many delicious gluten free options.
13. Henry’s Diner
Henry’s is amazing. No other way to put it. While it can get a little crowded, once you start eating you’ll be too distracted to care. Henry’s has some of the best breakfast food I’ve honestly ever eaten. On top of that their servers are super friendly and the service is top notch.