Finding a satisfying meal in the heart of Manhattan often feels like a choice between a sky-high price tag and a sad, overpriced slice of pizza designed purely for tourists. The constant hum of Broadway marquees and the neon glow of billboards can trick your stomach into thinking that a reasonable price is impossible to find. However, the reality is that you do not need to drain your wallet or settle for a stale pretzel from a street cart to eat well in this bustling district.
The key to eating cheaply near Times Square is knowing where to look. You have to step away from the chain restaurants that line 42nd Street and venture toward the edges of Hell’s Kitchen or the Garment District. Here, amidst the walk-up apartments and historic facades, you will find a vibrant ecosystem of delis, pizza joints, and international kitchens that cater to locals who demand quality without the tourist markup.
This guide is designed for the savvy traveler and the budget-conscious local alike. Whether you are rushing to catch a matinee, taking a break from a Midtown office, or simply exploring the city, you need food that is fast, filling, and affordable. We have scoured the blocks surrounding the Crossroads of the World to bring you options that prioritize flavor and value, proving that you can eat like a New Yorker without spending a fortune.
We have focused on establishments that offer exceptional value for money, often serving massive portions that can easily be shared or saved for later. From iconic New York slices to authentic international street food, the area is a melting pot of affordable cuisine. You just need a compass to navigate the noise and find the gems that keep the city running.
So, before you resign yourself to an overpriced burger or a lackluster food hall experience, take a look at our curated list below. These are the spots where the line moves fast, the food is hot, and the prices remain surprisingly grounded, even in the shadow of the world’s most famous intersection.
Times Square Diner & Grill
| Address | 807 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 315-2400 |
It is really good food. We found this on Google and they have great reviews, rightly so. From out side we were not sure, but I side is beautiful and the way everyone greets and serves made our day. Breakfast was outstanding. Their portion sizes are huge and worth the price. Must go breakfast place.
On a recent trip to NYC we got some takeout from here . We got 2 orders of the Loaded Times Square Breakfast. The portions were huge and it was enough for our two girls to be satisfied + allow my wife and I to try some. The pancakes were good as was the bacon and sausage. The potatoes that came with it were just ok and could use some additional seasoning. The staff was very efficient and my order was ready exactly when they said it would be. If you are ever in the area I would definitely recommend them for breakfast.
My wife and I stopped in for breakfast today. We both had create your own omelets. The food was delicious, the portion size was very generous and the omelets were cooked well done, which is just how I like it! Staff was friendly and very attentive. We would definitely come back again.
This diner was just a few blocks from our hotel. We arrived early Friday morning and were seated right way. The restaurant is very small so during busy times I could imagine there being a wait.
Service is verrrrry fast! It seemed like our order was ready within 5 mins of ordering. The portion sizes are ginormous. I can imagine a lot of food goes to waste simply because it’s difficult to consume it all.
Omelette and latte were delish! Pancake was average and hash browns were just okay.
Overall it was a pretty good food experience.
Delicious and high-quality breakfast with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere was clean, cozy, and relaxing, and the staff were very friendly and attentive. Excellent service and a wonderful dining experience. I would definitely come back for breakfast again
Melt Shop
| Address | 135 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 974-3423 |
🍋 Taylor’s Tayke:
Melt Shop is one of those spots that hits a nostalgic note for me. I used to eat here a lot in college, so coming back feels familiar in the best way. It sits in that fast-casual lane, but the quality is a step above your typical fast food spot. It’s comfort food that actually delivers on flavor and texture.
🍋 My Tipsy Tayke:
N/A, this is all about the food.
🍋 My Taysty Tayke:
Get Down & Dirty, Expeditiously: Korean BBQ Sandwich
Korean stick glazed crispy chicken with sesame seeds, mayo, and Asian slaw. Delicious, crispy, and saucy. The sauce could have hit a little harder, but overall still a strong sandwich.
The Chicken Caesar Club was flavorful and a solid option. The Parm Fries were okay, nothing crazy but they do the job.
Melt Shop’s real strength for me has always been the melts. The Burger Melts were my go-to, juicy, crispy, and consistently satisfying. Options like the Spicy Crispy Mac Melt and the Burger Melt with wagyu beef, cheeses, pickles, caramelized onions, and burger sauce really show how they elevate classic comfort food.
🍋 Service:
Quick and straightforward, fits the fast-casual vibe.
🍋 Plates From My Visit:
Korean BBQ Sandwich
Chicken Caesar Club
Parm Fries
🍋 In Conclusion:
A nostalgic comfort food spot that still holds up. Not trying to be fine dining, but delivers on flavor and satisfaction better than your average fast food option.
🍋 Stamped by Elajas ✅
This spot earns the “Best Grilled Cheese” in every state by Chowhound. This cheesy comfort food definitely hit the spot! Crispy bread, melty cheese, plus their KBBQ tenders with the Korean sauce that was honestly so good. They even have a Dubai chocolate drink.
MUST-TRY: Wagyu Biggie Melts, KBBQ Tenders/Burger.
Save this for your next cheesy craving! You'll thank me. 😉
What a pleasant surprise. We stopped in randomly, because I love grilled cheese. Especially with flare. We were not disappointed! We got the buffalo chicken melt, the shop bacon cheeseburger, the grilled chicken chipotle melt and loaded tots. Chipotle melt and tots photographed. Nothing was less than delicious. The buffalo sauce is dynamite. The burger sauce reminds me of big Mac sauce, delish! The loaded tots were demolished in 2 minutes flat. Lol. My Chipotle sandwich had the most incredible flavor. Hands down my favorite. I highly recommend this place if you are in the area. And the prices are very reasonable for NYC. $55 for 3 of us to eat, including drinks. The staff is polite and helpful as well. We had questions about the menu. We will be back next time we are in the city!
Got a Mac and cheese and an Oreo milkshake, the Mac and cheese was very good, the milkshake was okay but I wish it had been thicker. Overall the food comes quick and it’s easy to order, and there’s a good amount of space to sit
Hello My foodies! I am spending the weekend in NY and stopped by here because we were hungry and it was close by. Well it's definitely a place to go if your hungry, but I wouldn't say it's the best tasting. The burger I got wasn't bad, but it was messy and little greasy. It was ok. The cheese fries unfortunately were cold so the taste was not good. The strawberry drink however was pretty good. Best part of a quick meal. I would only recommend if there is nothing else around and your super hungry! However the service was fine and they were cleaning during our meal so they try to keep it clean.
LOS TACOS No.1
| Address | 229 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
We live 3.5 hours from NYC and I would drive that far to eat these tacos. They are the BEST tacos I’ve ever had. They have delicious tortillas, agua fresca, fresh guacamole and fresh made salsas. We tried the steak and chicken tacos and both were so tender and juice and had amazing flavor. The line to get inside was so long and we almost changed our minds about eating here, but glad we didn’t. The line moved very quickly. The only downside is there is no seating. You stand to eat and with the place packed with people, it was difficult to find a place to stand and enjoy our food. If I lived in NYC, I’d eat here all the time!! THE BEST!
Stopped by Los Tacos No. 1 at Grand Central for lunch, and it absolutely lived shortcuts or compromises. There was a long 20-minute queue when I arrived, but don't let that deter you—the line moves fast, and it is 100% worth the wait!
The ordering process is super efficient. You choose your style and your tortilla (they offer both excellent corn and flour options). I ordered the Pollo Asado (grilled chicken) and the Adobada (marinated pork) tacos, paired with one of their refreshing Aguas Frescas to drink.
The taste was amazing. The Pollo Asado was perfectly grilled, and the Adobada had the most incredible flavor with just the right amount of seasoning. Everything tasted incredibly fresh, authentic, and satisfying. Highly recommended if you are in the area and looking for a top-tier lunch spot. I will definitely be back!
The whole experience was great. When there is a line/queue it must be good. Placing your order at the cashier went fast; ordered 4 items, cause I couldn’t choose.
All taco’s freshly made in front of you at the counter. Couldn’t fault any, delicious (also spicy) sauces at the bar. All standing places. Great authentic food. Loved everything of the whole experience, the queue is worth waiting for
Your first time is going to feel very overwhelming but the food is so worth it!!
The menu is simple but perfect! I always get the pork quesadilla with chips and guac and everytime it tastes just as good as the last time.
The food is VERY reasonably priced. Once you enter (if there’s not a line) you order your food in one line and then move over to the counter to give your ticket to the chefs.
NO TICKET, NO TACO!
The chefs will ask you “flour or corn” and “con todo?” Which means “all the toppings the serve on top?”
Unless you’re allergic or have an aversion to the toppings (onions, cilantro, salsa, guac) you’re gunna want them all.
THERES NO FORMAL SEATING HERE! Just standing stations that make eating these quick meal perfect for a get and go meal.
Highly recommend!
Absolutely incredible! The tacos were fresh, full of flavor, and one of the best I’ve ever had. Everything was clean, the service was excellent, and every bite was delicious. If you’re in New York, you have to try this place. Highly recommended! 🌮❤️
Woorijip
| Address | 12 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (212) 244-1115 |
Great quick serve option in K-town. Kimbap, rolls, japchae - all pre-prepared and ready to grab. They have hot foods like stew and Korean pancake - they can be heated in the microwave. There is seating if you want to eat inside as well. Good quality at a reasonable price.
Seating by the entrance and more in the back but cramped. Not for sitting long to eat so waited just a little to get a high table. Fast, casual.
The shelves and cashiers are in the center of the space. Packed food ready to eat or heat up first- soups, sides, single food items to individual meals.Beverage section next to the cashiers.
Liked the spicy tuna salad roll, and wildrice roll with crabmeat - @$5.50 each, bite-sized and tasty. Steamed fish with ginger was still warm, had it with purple rice $2.50. The white fish filet jeon was eggy, and the anchovies were too sweet.
Tiny restroom available, key from the cashier.
The prices seem affordable to me. There is a lot of rotation so the food is fresh. It was my first visit and the place was very, very crowded so no space available for dinner in. It was difficult to choose because I wanted to try everything! Everything looked wonderful and was freshly made (the heat of the trays). I'll be back another day to buy more 😋
Omg, I absolutely love it! Food is inexpensive and delish.
There are items that are always on the menu, while others change daily.
You can grab and go or sit down and eat at the location, there are 2 dining areas. Staff is polite and friendly. If you pay cash they dont charge sales tax.
My pics are not the best representation of how the food looks - I always pick up and eat at my desk, and I am a horrid picture taker (not even gonna call myself a photographer lol)
And did I say food was delisious? Yummm.
Fast casual home cooked Korean. Come here if you want an amazing quick bite! We got the Fried chicken, kimbap, beef scallion pancake, miso soup, and cucumber salad. Everything comes prepackaged in take out containers and they have microwaves if you want to eat in. Really great concept for all types of occasions and prices are super reasonable!
Bao Bao Cafe
| Address | 214 W 39th St Retail 101, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 965-2214 |
What a gem of a hole in the wall! Do not let the size fool you, the food here is doing a lot.
N1 Bao Bao Noodles - Excellent spice level, well balanced and hits just right.
N3 Little Hot Pot - The broth alone is worth coming back for. Warming, comforting and genuinely healing.
R4 Pork Belly with Rice - The pork was incredibly juicy and pairs perfectly with the rice. A solid main.
A2 Seaweed Salad - Simple and solid. A nice refreshing contrast to the richer dishes.
A1 Tea Eggs - A classic done right. Hit the spot perfectly.
Overall a great spot if you are looking for affordable, flavorful comfort food in Midtown. Highly recommend!
Great atmosphere. Food was delicious. Great price and a must try when you get off the penn station or want a quick and good bite. Got the pork belly over rice, Bao buns, popcorn chicken and beef noodles.
I went to Bao Bao with my luggage after getting off my bus at the Port Authority and it was the perfect spot. The food was delicious and came out super quickly. The bathrooms were super clean and there were plenty of tables and space in the back too. I had enough room to sit and eat without feeling like I was in the way with my suitcase.
We had the bao bao noodles and the beef noodle soup, medium and spicy, respectively. They were soooo good, especially the beef noodle soup.
The beef was especially tender and had a rich flavor carrying the spices in the broth. The pork in the bao bao noodles was delightful to eat at the bottom of the bowl, forming a kind of thick complex mix of meat and the delicate flavored broth in every final spoonful.
I had a wonderful dining experience at Baobao Cafe. It’s a beautifully designed, clean, and welcoming spot that serves incredible Taiwanese dishes. We ordered a mix of street food snacks and main dishes to share, and everything was bursting with flavor. The staff was super friendly and helpful with recommendations. It’s the perfect place for a casual dinner or a cozy weekend lunch with friends!
7th Street Burger
| Address | 485 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (877) 245-9364 |
A Standout Burger Experience in New York
After traveling from Canada to sample some of New York City's finest fare, I can confidently say that this establishment serves one of the best cheeseburgers in the city. The quality of the ingredients, the careful preparation, and the attention to detail were evident in every bite.
Equally impressive was the level of service. Jacob, the owner, was exceptionally warm, welcoming, and genuinely personable—making a point to check in with guests and ensure everyone was well taken care of. His hospitality, along with that of his staff, created an atmosphere that elevated the entire dining experience.
I would highly recommend this spot to both locals and visitors alike. It was well worth the trip from Canada, and I left thoroughly satisfied.
Joe
7th Street Burger is easily one of the best burger spots I’ve tried. The location is convenient, the service was friendly and incredibly fast, and the prices are hard to beat for the quality you get.
The menu is fairly limited, but it’s clear that every item has been carefully crafted rather than trying to offer too many options. I ordered the double cheeseburger, and honestly, there aren’t enough words to describe how good it was. The flavors were absolutely amazing, perfectly balanced, juicy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
The fries were just as impressive: super fresh and crispy.
10/10 experience. I would 100% recommend 7th Street Burger to anyone looking for an outstanding burger at a great price. I’ll definitely be coming back.
I recently stopped by this place while i was visiting new york and it was one of the best part of the trip!! the second you walk in it just feels so warm and welcoming, the staff is actually super friendly and makes you feel like you belong there, not just some random customer.
You gotta ask for the **Jalapeños Burger** — it’s juicy, perfectly seasoned, and those fresh jalapeños are the perfect little kick that cuts through everything without being too much. Everything tasted so fresh, I was genuinely impressed.
If you’re from New York or just visiting like me, this spot is worth it for the taste, the chill vibes, and the good service. Highly recommend, I'll definitely be back soon. 🍔 🔥
We were in New York City to see a Broadway show and wanted something quick to eat before our matinee. I’ve heard great things about the smashburgers from 7th Street, so we stopped in, and it was exactly what we were looking for. Their menu is straightforward with just a few burger choices, so the food came out really fast. Very tasty and exactly how a smashburger should be! The worker behind the register was friendly and welcoming too. We will definitely keep them in mind for future NYC lunches when we need something tasty and quick!
The burger was honestly really good. Super juicy, simple, and full of flavor.
Only downside was the wait and lack of seating. It took a while to get a spot, so it’s definitely more of a grab-and-go place than somewhere to sit and chill.
Still worth it for the taste!
Kwik Meal NYC
| Address | 100 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM |
| Phone | (917) 412-4694 |
Tried the Kwik Meal food truck.the wrap was really delicious with a great balance of flavors and Biryani was good in taste.The filling was well-seasoned, fresh, and satisfying, making it a great quick meal. The only downside was the packaging—it was served in a plastic box that became extremely hot, making it difficult and uncomfortable to handle while eating. A more heat-friendly or insulated packaging option would make the experience even better. Overall, great food.
Good tasty cheap eats! Fulfilling and quick.
Everything was freshly made and well prepared!
The guy that served us was so friendly and accommodating...which is quite rare in NYC.
We ordered the chicken and lamb combo over rice and the chicken pita wrap. Crispy, soft pita bread with everything lusciously doused in a refreshing yogurt dressing.
There's a term in Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi called "Barkat" which loosely translates to bounty/abundance on a plate of food... Kwik Meal was the place that hit the spot for me.
I ordered Chicken Biryani and was happy with the familiar flavours from back home, generous chicken, fluffy flavoured rice, the banger yoghurt sauce and one whole egg!
The owner was also really approachable and nice to talk to, and recommended me a nice public park where I could enjoy my meal.
I had been traveling for a few days so was starting to get a sensitive stomach but I feel like the biryani healed something in my tummy haha
If I ever go to NYC again I would definitely eat here.
I had 15 mins before catching my Uber to the airport. I’m so glad I stopped here for my food-to-go to have at the airport… because airport food is not the greatest. Amin was so warm, friendly, and gave me guidance on what to get. He did not disappoint! The lamb with rice and salad was soooo good! REAL lamb, not the artificial stuff you get at some of the other places. This cart is a must visit if you’re in NYC. I will be back and can’t wait!
Do not hesitate to eat here. Everyone loved it. I really recommend adding the spicy sauce to your lamb/falafel sandwich. Get extra napkins.
Margon
| Address | 136 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (212) 354-5013 |
Cuban kitchen that does a lot of take out and delivery business, with about a dozen tables inside. Order up, and take your food to your seat. Very pleasant staff, lots of choices as far as lunch goes. Lively, busy atmosphere. The restaurant seems to be known for their Cubanos. I know Cubanos. I have had dozens of them from dozens of places in Puerto Rico. And these Cubanos, sadly, are a hot, soft, steamy mess. But the coffee is delicious.
Absolutely amazing first impression of Cuban food! The lady at the restaurant was so kind and helpful. The food portions were huge for the price, and the chicken was fall off the bone tender. Rice and beans (Moro negro) were super tasty with tons of flavor. If you’re in Times Square and want some authentic Cuban food, you gotta check this place out!
A hole in the wall place off Times Square that not just serves amazing food but also offers big smiles and wonderful conversations.
I had Cuban Sandwich and man it was mouth watering. Flavour in simplicity to its core. And the staff made us feel so welcomed.
Not being the so called touristy place, this is a safe haven for a tourist like me who loves not to be rushed and enjoy the local flavours of an eatery.
I eat the cubanos with cortadito, the bread is crispy and you can feel the pull pork with salami. It is very nice, its a traditional cuban Restaurant, service very good and its quite a busy small restaurant. Very authentic 👍
This place was round the corner from my hotel. Its such a gem! It feels like its a place that locals know, not many tourists. Its definitely a family run place and has a great vibe there. The first time I went, I had the Cuban sandwich. My first time trying one and it didnt disappoint! The pork was so tasty and the bread crisped to perfection.
Before I left new York I decided to go back to try the chicken. It was the best meal I have had! So juicy and fall off the bone. I will dream of that meal until I can return. Highly recommend 👌🏿
Go Go Curry Times Square
| Address | 273 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Tuesday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Wednesday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Thursday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Friday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Saturday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM Sunday: 10:55 AM – 9:55 PM |
| Phone | (646) 476-3755 |
Solid Japanese curry in the heart of Times Square. Got the pork katsu curry — crispy cutlet, rich savory sauce, and a generous portion for the price. Great value for the area, and friendly service. Would come back.
I'm not sure if this place would be Tokyo salaryman approved but I was impressed. For $12.55 you get a "small" size pork katsu curry which in my opinion was pretty large. 55 seems to be an integral part of Go Go Curry's brand identity so it's sad to think I probably missed some type of May 5th promotion.
We used to come here for a tiny Japanese flavor curry restaurant but after pandemic it closed. Now it reopened and we came back to give it a try.
Food was mediocre, and I would not recommend it.
It felt like reheating the food from the freezer.
Very disappointed.
For the value and portion you can’t ask for more. However I I ordered an extra Pork Katsu, and I’m not was the pork Katsu is missing or not. Three of us had grand slam and we cannot tell one is the one with extra pork Katsu. Also the rice itself could improve. But given that we’re in mid town, it’s hard to find a restaurant to deliver the same quantity, quality of food for this price range
Love the curry here especially the rice texture! Very friendly staff and great food value! Highly recommend others to try!
$1.50 Fresh Pizza
| Address | 143 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 AM |
| Phone | (212) 366-5550 |
Holy crapadoodado this place was unreal. We got 2 slices of pepperoni pizza, bbq chicken and a cheese. This is our third night in NYC and our fifth pizza place to try and omg was the best one yet. Cheapest, warmest, freshes ahhhh. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend. For four pizzas and two bottles of water was $11.50 usd which is just unfricken betable in pretty much the heart of time square. To find this place it is under scaffolding just around the corner of time square. Do not get mistaken with the pizza shop that is pretty much opposite this shop on the corner this shop is not on the corner. On apple maps it is still called 99cent fresh pizza. It is on 40th street in between 7th ave and broadway. There are benches inside where you can stand and eat your slice before going back out on the streets. Enjoy fellow followers
This pizza place was surprisingly good. The crust was good, the toppings were good, the flavor was good. Honestly, everything was solid.
I definitely recommend getting pizza here, even if it’s just to try it out. Just make sure you have a plan for where to eat. There isn’t much room inside, and some people can be a bit obnoxious.
One thing worth mentioning is hygiene. I noticed cash being handled while also working the oven and using kitchen tools like pizza slicers. I guess that’s normal for some places, but it did stand out.
Overall, an easy 5-star rating for me.
Delicious pizza from such a small place! Very underrated. I highly recommend. With the price point its amazing. $4 for two slices and a soda, hard to find in this area. You should visit this place.
Fresh, Hot and Tasty! I had Margherita Slice for $1.50 and a can of Diet Coke. What can you say: pizza is fresh and hot, it is tasty, the cheese does not taste artificial or anything. It is one of those famous $1.50 pizza places which does and more than solide job. It is American style for sure, the crust is nice and a bit crispy. All good here, great place for a short pizza snack!
Great value for sure! The cheese pizza is amazing. That Peperoni mit so much and it’s not as much a bang for the buck as the cheese. I would recommend only buying the cheese.
Galaxy Diner
| Address | 665 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (212) 586-4885 |
Absolutely phenomenal diner!! The food portions are large and very filling. I live in Chelsea, but go out of my way to eat at this diner, in Hells Kitchen, as often as I can!
Courteous & attentive staff, too!
Tried the Galaxy Restaurant for breakfast because it looked so Iconic. I had the breakfast croissant which had egg feta spinach balsamic glaze. It was really good. Husband omelet was good and came with hashbrowns- lot of food.
The Galaxy Diner has an extensive menu. We had brunch, eggs Benedict on an English muffin..This came with delicious 'home fries'. I had the crab cakes eggs Benedict. I would forego the crab cakes next time. The plates of pancakes going by me looked huge and delicious, topped with fresh berries. The apple juice is freshly made and good. Their lattés are very good. I got a coffee top off with regular coffee and the regular coffee was really good too! I met a friend and we had a nice lesiaurely brunch. I got so full!!!! Not crazy expensive like so many NYC restaurants.
Cute diner. We had attentive service and good food here. It was a nice place to find just outside of the busy tourist area.
Absolute gem!!!! Greeted with glass of water and coffee. Food cooked to perfection. Staff professional and friendly. Perfect breakfast experience
COOK EATERY
| Address | 115 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | 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 |
| Phone | (212) 730-9495 |
As a person traveling here from Az I absolutely appreciate and enjoy eateries like this. I ordered a fresh beet and greens juice and branded a premade sushi roll package. The whole place looked delicious and each item was around $10. Everything was fast and efficient and perfect because I was in the middle of a long day of authorship and book release and had a small break. Thank you!
I live one block over on 44th, and have visited Cook Eatery many times because it’s so convenient. But I’ve had it with the intolerable rudeness of the two morning cooking guys, and won’t go there ever again. On more than one occasion I’ve been at the counter trying to order and the taller of the two, he works on the left side, has looked me dead in the face and simply turned his back to me. I’ve tried being extra friendly with warm ‘good morning’s’ and such, but have never, not once been granted the courtesy of a reply or acknowledgement. It’s as if I’m invisible. Yet, with specific types of people he can be quite chatty. The shorter of the two appears to take his cue from him. Today when I went in I waited patiently while he took pancakes off the griddle (you don’t want to let them burn, of course). I just wanted an order of home fries. When he was finished and the griddle was empty, he looked at me and said he was busy, and couldn’t give me home fries. They were sitting right there in the pan. I was the only one there and there was nothing on the griddle, yet he was too busy to put some home fries in a blasted styrofoam container?? Both these guys need to be replaced, as their attitudes are terrible. They should not be dealing with customers because they are rude and disrespectful. The two ladies in the register area are ok. If you make conversation with them they will engage you, but those two guys working the morning griddle makes for a terrible experience. There are other places to go in the area, and I would encourage you to seek them out rather than submit yourself to the rudeness that seems to be the norm at Cook Eatery.
Clean establishment. Service was excellent. Wish the sauce was more flavorful. Got the roast beef wrap. Roast beef freshly sliced. Wrapped well but lacking flavor.
They offer a wide variety of food for all meals, including beverages. However, the staff is not very courteous in treating customers. Prices are reasonable, and the place is open from 6 AM to midnight.
Little confusing getting off an international flight but stuff are quick but nice.
Buffet is the weighed type, seating upstairs. I was wanting a CLASSIC diner experience but they have veggies and nothing needed seasoning and good coffee too.
This is a great place for eating healthy but you choose more.
Again, the great seasoning for a buffet blew me away for having an under 4 stars. This IS a 4+ stars place
$1.50 Fresh Pizza
| Address | 1723 Broadway, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 AM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 AM |
| Phone | (212) 245-2155 |
If you want an authentic late night pizza spot, this is it. My 3rd time here and it doesn't disappoint when I visit NYC. Brjbg a friend and get the deal for 2 slices and a water/soda (pop).
Tasty pizza at ridiculously low prices! Friendly staff. Highly recommend. Prepare for lineups and long wait times.
Hot pizza, quick service, at a great value. It gets crowded. Eat at the counter and move out of the way or take your slices outside. Not the best slice in the city, but definitely one of the best values.
This place is a great option if you want a quick, affordable slice in the city. For the price, the cheese pizza is honestly very good. It is simple, fresh, hot, and exactly what you expect from a classic New York-style pizza slice. The crust is thin, the cheese tastes good, and it is a perfect quick stop when you want something easy and inexpensive.
That being said, I think the cheese pizza is definitely the best choice here. I tried other toppings as well, but they did not have the same quality or taste as the plain cheese slice. The toppings could be improved because they do not add much flavor and do not feel as fresh compared to the cheese pizza.
Overall, for the price, this place is absolutely worth it if you stick with the cheese pizza. It is quick, convenient, and a solid spot for a cheap slice. I would come back for the cheese pizza, especially when I need something fast and affordable.
If you need a snack or a meal, the price-value of this pizza is great. The pizza is freshly baked because of its popularity. It’s not amazing pizza but it’s good and it hits the spot for $1.50 (cheese and $2.25 with one topping). No line 10pm Sunday. Feb 2026.
Urban Hawker
| Address | 135 W 50th St, New York, NY 10020 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (914) 338-8431 |
Loved this spot! I ended up coming here twice during my trip to NYC. The location is super convenient in Midtown, just steps from Rockefeller Center, and I was pleasantly surprised that we were able to get a table for three both times without much wait.
The portions are generous and the prices are very reasonable for Midtown Manhattan. Over the two visits, I tried both versions of the Hainanese chicken rice, and both were delicious. The food came out incredibly fast, and I especially appreciated that the meals included Chinese broccoli.
I also tried the stir-fried noodles from Hainan Jones and the beef rendang from Padi D’NYC — both were excellent. Overall, everything we ordered was flavorful, satisfying, and served quickly. Definitely a great spot for a casual and tasty meal in Midtown!
This is a great place to hang out with friends. You have multiple food options. I loved the chicken satay & the rambutan salad. I would come back to order the same thing again & again. A bit on the noisy side & the almost self-serve situation might leave the tables messy & there isn't enough helpful staff.
A great option for trying a variety of Singaporean and South Asian cuisines. There are many stalls each selling their own specialities, just like a hawker center in Singapore. Portions are huge and prices are decent.
Great find if you're in the mood for some no frills hawker street food. There's a wide variety of cuisines from Hokkien to Singaporean to Malay. Was pleasantly surprised to see they even had kaya toast as well!
We ate at Prawnaholic. Food was fresh and very tasty. Great customer service. Pretty quiet in here though. Probably local secret spot. Definitely worth a shot, The Pad Thai was close to the best I’ve had.
Three Roosters
| Address | 792 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (917) 261-4055 |
Great chicken and rice! Got the fried chicken and the grilled chicken. The zab sauce is what makes it - without it the chicken by itself is good but not standout, but with it it’s just a flavor bomb. Zab fries were decent, nothing amazing. The broth that came with the sets was low key incredible. Also shoutout to the staff - the woman working on a Sunday night was SO nice and friendly, I almost felt like I was in her own home.
A real cozy place; Limited dine-in seating..12 people at most. Food was good and portions were perfect. Service was on point. Would definitely go again as it is great for a quick pre-theater bite.
Tried all three of their poached, fried and grilled chicken. The grilled was a personal favourite but the sauce for the poached chicken was really good! Their ginger rice is also super flavorful! Food came out super quickly, would definitely come back!
Came here for a quick lunch with my sister before a show on a Sunday at around 1:30. It's a small restaurant - it was us and one large group, and that was all the seating they had. Neither of us were super hungry, so we ordered the fried chicken and zab seasoned fries to share. The fried chicken comes with cucumber, ginger rice, sweet chili sauce, and a little bowl of chicken broth. The chicken was good - it was perfectly fried. The fries were nice and crispy. The zab seasoning has hints of lime - it almost reminded me of froot loops so I'm not sure how I felt about that. I also tried the Thai iced tea with lime juice. It was refreshing, and it was a nice change from the regular Thai milk tea. I like that there aren't a lot of menu items - that's usually a good sign because it means they're focused on making a handful of dishes and making them good. I wouldn't mind coming back to try the grilled or poached chicken.
Absolutely wonderful food. Everything we had was cooked to perfection. The poached chicken with the Soy Bean Ginger sauce is my favorite dish! Friendly service. Everyone in the family enjoyed their meal!
Tips for Eating Cheap Near Times Square
Navigating the culinary landscape of Midtown requires more than just a list of addresses; it requires a strategy. The high volume of foot traffic creates a competitive market, but it also creates opportunities for inflated pricing if you are not careful. To ensure you get the best possible meal for the lowest possible price, keep these local strategies in mind before you head out to eat.
1. Ditch the Sit-Down Service
The fastest way to increase the price of a meal in New York City is to sit down and wait for a server. Tipping 20% on top of already inflated menu prices can turn a $15 lunch into a $25 endeavor. Look for counter-service spots, takeout windows, and delis. You will save money on the tip, eat faster, and often find that the quality of the food is just as high, if not higher, than at a full-service restaurant nearby.
2. Embrace the "Dollar Slice" Culture (Within Reason)
While the true $1 slice is becoming a relic of the past, the spirit of the cheap slice is alive and well. Look for pizza joints that offer "two slices and a soda" deals or simple cheese slices for under $3. Places that specialize in volume, like the ones on our list, can offer lower prices because they are serving hundreds of customers an hour. Avoid the fancy "artisanal" pizza spots right on Times Square proper, as their rent dictates a much higher price per pie.
3. Explore Hell’s Kitchen Side Streets
The energy of Times Square fades quickly as you walk west toward 9th and 10th Avenues. This is where the locals eat. Rents are slightly lower, and the clientele is repeat business rather than one-time tourists. This shift in economics and audience results in better food, larger portions, and lower prices. A five-to-ten-minute walk can save you 30% on your meal.
4. Hit the Halal Carts and Food Trucks
New York City street meat is legendary for a reason. The halal carts, particularly those on the corners of 53rd and 6th or scattered around the plazas, offer massive platters of chicken or lamb over rice with salad and white sauce for a very reasonable price. These portions are often large enough for two meals. Always look for the cart with the longest line of locals; that is where the food is freshest and safest.
5. Time Your Meals Strategically
If you have flexibility in your schedule, avoid the peak lunch rush between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. While prices rarely change based on the time of day at these cheap spots, the quality and speed do. By eating an early lunch at 11:30 AM or a late lunch at 2:30 PM, you will avoid the crushing crowds of office workers, get your food faster, and often receive a more generous serving because the kitchen isn’t in panic mode.
6. Look for "Specials" and Combos
Many delis and fast-casual spots in the area offer lunch specials that bundle a main dish with a side and a drink. This is almost always cheaper than buying items a la carte. Scan the menu boards for the word "Special" or "Combo." In Chinese takeout spots, look for the "Lunch Special" menus which are usually available until 4:00 PM and offer a tremendous amount of food for a single low price.
The area surrounding Times Square is a high-pressure environment where only the strong survive. The restaurants that manage to stay in business while charging fair prices are the ones that have perfected their craft. They rely on speed, consistency, and word-of-mouth reputation rather than location alone to draw in customers.
By venturing just a few blocks away from the neon epicenter, you unlock a world of culinary value that many tourists never see. Whether you are craving a classic New York bagel, a steaming bowl of noodles, or a perfectly charred kebab, you can find it without breaking the bank. Good food is the fuel that keeps this city moving, and you don’t need a Broadway budget to enjoy it.
