Think Los Angeles is all glitzy celebrity hangouts and eye-watering dinner tabs? Think again. While the city certainly has its share of upscale dining, LA is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, and nowhere is that more deliciously evident than in its incredible, often understated, and wonderfully affordable culinary scene. From humble food trucks serving up world-class tacos to family-run eateries dishing out comfort food from across the globe, Affordable & Casual Eats LA isn't just a budget-friendly option—it's a gateway to some of the city's most authentic and soul-satisfying meals.
Despite rising costs and the ebb and flow of restaurant closures, a treasure trove of establishments continues to prove that high-quality, memorable food doesn't have to break the bank. We’ve scoured the city, from the bustling boulevards to the quiet neighborhood corners, to bring you a comprehensive guide to the places where your dollars stretch further, and your taste buds sing louder.
At a Glance: Your Guide to Affordable LA Dining
- LA is a Global Food Hub: Expect an incredible diversity of cuisines, often at incredibly friendly prices.
- Quality Doesn't Mean Pricey: Many top-tier chefs and family recipes are found in casual settings.
- Neighborhood Gems are Everywhere: Don't just stick to tourist traps; venture into local communities.
- Pop-Ups Paved the Way: Many now-permanent spots started as popular pop-ups, proving their worth.
- Smart Eating Saves: Look for lunch specials, smaller plates, and family-style options to maximize value.
- Don't Forget Breakfast & Snacks: Many spots offer fantastic morning meals and mid-day treats for under $10.
The True Flavor of LA: A Budget-Friendly Culinary Expedition
Los Angeles isn't just a city of stars; it's a city of flavor, where culinary traditions from every corner of the earth have found a home. And the best part? You don't need a fat wallet to experience it. This guide focuses on the eateries that consistently deliver on taste, value, and that quintessential LA casual vibe.
Mexican Magic: Tacos, Tlayudas, and Beyond
Mexican cuisine is the beating heart of LA's affordable food scene, and the variety is staggering. From Northern Sonoran to Oaxacan, Sinaloan, and straight-up LA-style tacos, there's a world of flavor in every tortilla.
Asadero Chikali (Inglewood)
Just a stone's throw from SoFi Stadium, Asadero Chikali, named after the local nickname for Mexicali, brings the robust flavors of Sonora to Inglewood. Their recently opened brick-and-mortar spot specializes in incredibly satisfying carne deshebrada tacos with refried beans, and their carne asada "Chikali style" with guacamole and beans is a must-try. The real MVP? Their hand-rolled flour tortillas—soft, chewy, and the perfect vehicle for any filling. Tacos come with an array of vibrant salsas and tangy pickled onions, making each bite an experience.
Barbacoa Ramirez (Arleta)
For an authentic taste of Hidalgo, Mexico, you need to set your alarm. Barbacoa Ramirez, run by Gonzalo Ramirez and his family, operates only on Saturday and Sunday mornings in the North San Fernando Valley. Here, the star is their steamy, fragrant lamb barbacoa, slow-cooked to tender perfection. It's a weekend ritual for many locals, and a culinary pilgrimage worth making for anyone seeking LAs Best Street Eats.
Komal (Historic South-Central)
Nestled in Mercado La Paloma, Komal is where owner Fátima Júarez meticulously sources, nixtamalizes, and grinds heirloom Mexican corn varieties for fresh masa. The result? Unforgettable tlacoyos—griddled corn cakes stuffed with ayocote beans and topped with nopales and queso fresco. Don't miss the flor de calabaza quesadilla, bursting with Oaxacan cheese and corn sofrito, or their rich, dusky mole. It's a true celebration of traditional Mexican cooking.
Macheen (Boyle Heights)
What started as a pop-up has now found a permanent home inside Milpa Grille. Siblings Ana and Jonathan Perez run Macheen, a daytime haven for breakfast burritos and lunch tacos. Their breakfast burritos are legendary: soft-scrambled eggs, Swiss cheese, chile-dusted tater tots, and your choice of fillings like brisket, longaniza, fried chicken, mushroom al pastor, or even Brussels sprouts. For lunch, their blue corn tortillas cradle crispy pork belly, birria, and fried chicken that will have you planning your next visit before you've even finished.
Poncho’s Tlayudas (Historic South-Central)
Another Mercado La Paloma gem, Poncho’s Tlayudas is a once-a-week pop-up that draws crowds every Friday night. Alfonso “Poncho” Martínez and his wife Odilia Romero serve mesquite-grilled tlayudas using masa imported directly from Oaxaca. These crispy, oversized corn tortillas are swathed with asiento (unrefined pork lard), refried beans, shredded cabbage, and string cheese. You can top them with chorizo, tasajo (salt-cured flank steak), or moronga (herb-laced blood sausage). Actionable Insight: For the ultimate experience, try combining all three meats!
Sonoratown (Mid-Wilshire & Downtown)
When you talk about Sonoran Mexican food in LA, Sonoratown quickly comes to mind. Owners Jennifer Feltham and Teodoro Díaz-Rodriguez Jr. have expanded their operations, but their original downtown location remains a touchstone for phenomenal Sonoran-style taquerias. Think impossibly tender mesquite-grilled meats, house-made flour tortillas, and a smoky char that defines the region's cuisine. It's a top contender if you're looking for Downtown LA cheap eats.
Tacos La Carreta (Whittier)
Opened in early 2023, Tacos La Carreta brings authentic Sinaloan street food to Whittier. José Manuel Morales Bernal honors his father’s style with standout dishes like the chorreada—a crisped corn tortilla layered with Monterey Jack, asiento, and your choice of carne asada, adobada, or tripa. Actionable Insight: Mixing asada/adobada with tripe is a pro move here. Don't overlook their Sinaloan pellizcada, thicker masa rounds that offer a different texture experience.
Villa’s Tacos (Highland Park)
Victor Villa’s motto is "more-is-more," and his tacos estilo Los Angeles live up to it. Villa’s Tacos are famous for their queso tacos: blue corn tortillas fused with cheese, then generously topped with cotija, onion, crema, and guacamole. You can choose from mesquite-smoked hashed chicken thigh, chopped asada, or chorizo. There's even a robust vegan option featuring half-pureed black beans with cactus salad. Their "jiquilpan" salsa, a ruddy mulch based on his father's Michoacán recipe with smoked chiles, is legendary. You can also find them at their popular counter in Grand Central Market.
Taquería Frontera (Cypress Park)
For a taste of Tijuana, head to Taquería Frontera. This vibrant spot, easily recognizable by its Selena mural and the enticing smoke billowing from the grill, serves up incredible burritos, queso tacos, and smoky carne asada. Owner Juan Carlos “JC” Guerra ensures that most dishes are under $12, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly and flavorful meal.
A World on Your Plate: Global Flavors, Local Prices
LA's diversity shines through its array of international cuisines that won't strain your wallet. From hearty Persian stews to spicy Caribbean roti, there’s an adventure waiting at every turn.
Azizam (Silver Lake)
Opened in March, Azizam by Cody Ma and Misha Sesar beautifully bridges home and restaurant Persian cooking. Having started as a popular pop-up, their Silver Lake establishment now offers incredible dishes like Kofteh Tabrizi—a giant beef-and-rice meatball infused with herbs, tomato sauce, Persian dried lime, and filled with dried apricots, prunes, barberries, and walnuts. Their turmeric-marinated chicken over rice is equally compelling.
Bridgetown Roti (East Hollywood)
Bringing Bajan and Trinidadian cultures to the forefront, Bridgetown Roti debuted as a permanent location in July after a successful pop-up run. Owners Rashida Holmes, Joy Clarke-Holmes, and Malique Smith craft delightful Caribbean fare. The shrimp roti, with spice-crusted shrimp, aloo sofrito, herb-chile sauce, and turmeric-tinged cabbage slaw, is a standout. Don't miss the delicate cod fish cakes with garlic aioli, callaloo in coconut broth, savory patties (the curried oxtail comes highly recommended), and their baked macaroni and cheese. It's an explosion of flavor perfect for any Top LA casual lunch spot.
Delmy’s Pupusas (Atwater Village)
Ruth Sandoval started Delmy’s Pupusas in 2007, naming it after her mother, and it's since become a beloved fixture at various farmers markets. Her harina de maiz pupusas are cake-like with crisp brown spots, and the ground chicharrón filling is a favorite. They also offer blue corn masa plant-based pupusas with vegetables, and the cheese and loroco pupusas are simply divine. Each pupusa is served with vibrant red salsa and zesty curtido, a Salvadoran fermented cabbage slaw. For a sweet finish, try the fried plantains with black bean puree.
Los Cocos Panaderia y Pupuseria (Westside)
If you're on the Westside and craving pupusas, Los Cocos is your destination. This Salvadoran bakery offers a staggering 19 types of pupusas, ranging from classic pork with cheese and loroco with cheese to diverse vegan options like squash with potato or beans with Soyrizo. Beyond the savory, their full pastry case is brimming with tempting sweets and baked goods.
El Bacano (North Hollywood)
Opened in summer 2023 by siblings Deany and Jonathan Santana, El Bacano shares their mother’s and grandmother’s cherished Dominican recipes. Start your day or anytime with mangú (mashed plantains) served with los tres golpes: fried eggs, griddled salami, and queso frito. Santana’s chicken, a richly browned pollo guisado, is packed with flavor, and their empanadas, stuffed with yellow cheese and diced salami, are perfectly crisp.
Las Segovias (South Gate)
Dive into Nicaraguan cuisine at Las Segovias. The nacatamal, a brick-sized tamale steamed in a banana leaf, is a true masterpiece—packed with bone-in pork ribs or chops, green olives, raisins, rice, potato, and a hint of sour orange. Try the quesillo, a simple yet satisfying corn tortilla with soft white cheese and crema, or the indio viejo, shredded beef in a rich gravy. Grilled meats served with gallo pinto and fried cheese are also excellent choices. Actionable Insight: Don't leave without trying their house condiment of diced onions in a vinegar chile sauce, and definitely order the cacao refresco.
Kang Kang Food Court (Alhambra)
For an authentic taste of Shanghai street food, Kang Kang Food Court is a must-visit. Their sheng jian bao—pan-fried dumplings with a perfectly crusty bottom, chewy top, fluffy midsection, and juicy pork soup inside—are legendary. Actionable Insight: Follow the poem on the wall for instructions on how to eat them: "make a small bite, blow to cool, sip the juice, then enjoy." It's a delightful and delicious experience.
Mae Malai House of Noodles (Los Feliz)
After starting as a popular stand, Mae Malai House of Noodles found a permanent home in late 2022, bringing authentic Thai boat noodles to Los Feliz. Owner Malai Data learned the recipe from her mother-in-law in Bangkok, and it shows. These small, under-$10 bowls of noodles feature a balanced broth, your choice of noodles, pork or beef, spices, green onions, fried pork skin, and a pork meatball. They also offer excellent basil-scented egg rolls and pad see ew.
Perilla LA (Chinatown)
Perilla LA in Chinatown is a haven for Korean banchan, those delightful small side dishes that elevate any meal. Here, they are light, nourishing, and utterly compelling—think garlicky eggplant, sesame-speckled green beans, seasonal kimchi (collard greens or daikon), and a delicate seaweed-rolled omelet. They offer dosirak trays with banchan over rice, along with doenjang-marinated chicken or cod. Actionable Insight: Visit on a Monday for a dosirak and pick up extra banchan to enjoy throughout the week.
Sincerely Syria (Sherman Oaks)
Adham Kamal’s Sincerely Syria has four locations, but they all share a commitment to delicate, deep-down-marinated shawarma. Choose between lahme (spiced lamb and beef) with a tahini-based tarator sauce, or djej (lemony chicken) with creamy toum (whipped garlic paste). Actionable Insight: For optimal proportions, order a small, handheld wrap rolled using only one round side of a pita. All wraps are finished on the griddle until browned and crackling, delivering a perfect bite.
Tokyo Fried Chicken (Downtown L.A.)
Fans of Japanese karaage will rejoice at Tokyo Fried Chicken. Owners Kouji and Elaine Yamanashi moved from Monterey Park to a larger Downtown L.A. location, offering counter service for their giant pieces of bone-in karaage, bursting with soy, garlic, and ginger flavors and a perfectly crispy batter. Served in sets with chicken fat-polished rice, pickles, a side (the shredded cabbage salad with ginger tang is highly recommended), and dipping sauce, it's a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also snag potato chips with onion dip and chile-dusted chicken skins.
Baja Subs Market & Deli (Various LA locations)
This unassuming spot offers a delightful surprise, especially for its Sri Lankan menu. With most items under $16, Baja Subs Market & Deli provides a flavorful and affordable journey through Sri Lankan, Mexican, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Don't forget to browse the market side for unique finds.
Mala Class (Highland Park)
Chef Michael Yang’s Mala Class brings bold Sichuan flavors to Highland Park in a comfortable setting. Highlights include marinated cucumber and soybean curd slices, crispy fried chicken wings with a chile dry rub, savory pork dumplings, and a warming spicy beef noodle soup. It's a spot that truly delivers on its name—expect that numbing, spicy "mala" sensation.
Heng Heng Chicken Rice (Hollywood)
For a taste of perfectly executed Hainanese Chicken, head to Heng Heng Chicken Rice. They offer both poached Hainanese chicken (white and dark meat) and fried chicken. Actionable Insight: Order the half-and-half over rice for under $20, giving you the best of both worlds. The chicken is tender, fragrant, and served with delicious ginger-scallion sauce and chili sauce.
Bé Ù (Virgil Village)
Bé Ù focuses on reasonably priced Vietnamese food with deep, homemade flavors. Known for their banh mi, crispy pork riblets, and flavorful popcorn chicken, this spot aims to benefit its employees and the local neighborhood with delicious, accessible food.
Liu’s Cafe (Koreatown)
Liu's Cafe in Koreatown offers a delightful fusion of Taiwanese and Hong Kong flavors. Their spicy wontons, Chiayi chicken over rice, and braised pork belly are all around the $10+ mark, providing excellent value. Pair your meal with house-made pastries like egg tarts, cookies, and pineapple buns, all perfectly complemented by their iced milk tea.
Supamu (Koreatown)
For a unique and affordable bite, Supamu in Koreatown specializes in Okinawan onigiri. Their signature features Spam, egg, and kimchi wrapped in rice. But the fun doesn't stop there—you can customize with additional fillings like fried soft-shell crab, hash browns, or a curry croquette. With everything on the menu under $15, it’s a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly stop.
Slurp & Sip (Various LA locations)
Ever wanted to customize your instant ramen experience? Slurp & Sip lets you do just that with their automated Korean ramyun machines. Patrons choose a ramyun package and then add toppings like eggs, cheese, scallions, or kimchi. Starting at just $5.99, including some toppings, it’s a fun, interactive, and super affordable way to get your noodle fix.
Borjstar Shawarma Shop (South Bay)
Owner Abu Jemil, Syrian-born, brings authentic Arabic-style shawarma to the South Bay at Borjstar. Their chicken and beef (mixed with lamb) shawarma are expertly seasoned and cooked, served generously on a plate or in thin flatbread wraps. With all items $16 and under, it’s a reliable spot for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Comfort & American Classics with a Twist
Sometimes, you just crave classic comfort food. LA has an abundance of casual spots serving up American favorites and global comfort dishes with an inventive twist, all at prices that won't make you wince.
Locol (Watts)
Reopened by Keith Corbin (executive chef and co-owner of Alta Adams) and Daniel Patterson, Locol is more than just a restaurant; it operates under their nonprofit, Alta Community, focusing on economic empowerment and employing Watts residents and trainees. Here, you'll find Alta Adams-inspired dishes at a lower price point, including smoked brisket and ribs, oxtails, fried chicken sandwiches, and their unique "foldies" (stuffed tortillas). It's soul food with a soul.
Mario’s Butcher Shop (Newport Beach)
Okay, so Newport Beach isn't exactly LA proper, but Mario’s Butcher Shop is worth the drive for sandwich aficionados. Chef-owner Mario Llamas smokes and cures his own meats, resulting in masterpieces like the smoked bologna sandwich, the hearty Italian sub, and the special steak sandwich, featuring wood-burning grilled Niman Ranch steaks with chimichurri on crusty bread. You can also grab Wagyu Bolognese, fresh pasta, and smoked salmon candy dip to go.
Super Burger (Off the 210 Freeway)
A true American classic, Super Burger, owned by Jean and Ben Khe, is a go-to for hearty, straightforward fare. Their classic cheeseburgers clock in at a very reasonable $7.95, and they offer pastrami, chili cheese fries, and even a deep-fried fish burger. The real sleeper hit is their chicken teriyaki with rice and veggies for $15.95—generous enough to feed two people easily.
Super Rad Sub Shop (West Hollywood)
Embracing bodega-style delights, Super Rad Sub Shop in West Hollywood serves up an entire menu under $20. Start your day with their popular egg and cheese sandwich for $12, or dive into a chopped cheese for lunch ($16-$18). It’s a no-frills spot delivering exactly what you want in a casual, satisfying sub.
Aloha Cafe (Little Tokyo)
Operating since 2004, Aloha Cafe in Little Tokyo is your destination for "stick-to-the-ribs" Hawaiian meals. Their Big Breakfast ($12.50) includes two eggs, Portuguese sausage, and corn beef hash, while the loco moco ($12.95) features a housemade ground beef patty, two eggs, and grilled onions piled on rice. It’s the perfect spot for a hearty, comforting start to your day or a midday fuel-up.
The Coop Pizza (Palms)
For a taste of authentic New York-style pizza, The Coop Pizza in Palms is a local favorite. Owned by Mike and Christina Fransen, who actually met at the restaurant decades ago, this spot offers classic cheese slices for just $3.50 (add $0.75 for pepperoni). It’s a perfect grab-and-go option for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly affordable meal.
Earle's On Crenshaw (South L.A.)
A true South LA institution, Earle's On Crenshaw has been serving up delicious grilled hot dogs for years. Whether you prefer all beef, chicken, or vegetarian options, they've got you covered. Their chili cheese fries are legendary, making this a classic spot for approachable prices and a taste of local history.
Sunday Gravy (Inglewood)
Chef Sol Bashirian and his siblings have created a local gem in Inglewood with Sunday Gravy, operating in the same space their father ran a pizzeria for decades. This spot is all about home-style Italian comfort food that feels like a hug. Expect hearty lasagna, delectable garlic butter shrimp, perfectly toasted garlic bread, classic chicken Parm, and a rich, satisfying Bolognese.
Sweet Bites & Breakfast Bliss
Sometimes, a quick, delicious pastry or a unique breakfast dish is all you need to conquer your day without emptying your wallet.
Borekas Sephardic Pastries (Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys)
Prepare to be amazed by Borekas Sephardic Pastries. Co-owner Uzi Waizman crafts signature bourekas using a proprietary phyllo/croissant dough enriched with brown butter. These often sell out quickly, so arrive early for fillings like savory mushrooms with truffles or spinach with cheese. With a second, larger location now open in Van Nuys, there's more opportunity to savor these flaky, rich delights.
Huge Tree Pastry (Monterey Park)
Step into Huge Tree Pastry for an authentic Taiwanese breakfast experience. This cash-only establishment is famous for its fan tuan—a substantial glutinous rice roll wrapped around crispy youtiao (fried dough), savory pork floss, tangy pickled mustard greens, and egg. At just $5.50, it's an incredibly filling and flavorful way to start your day.
Navigating LA's Affordable Food Scene Like a Local
Finding these budget-friendly treasures in a city as vast as Los Angeles can feel like a quest, but with a few pointers, you'll be eating like a local in no time.
- Embrace Neighborhood Exploration: Many of the best affordable eats are tucked away in residential or less touristy areas. Don't be afraid to venture beyond the usual hotspots into places like Boyle Heights, Historic South-Central, Inglewood, or the San Fernando Valley.
- Look for Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer more attractive pricing during lunch hours, making it a perfect time to try a new spot without committing to a full dinner price.
- Follow Food Blogs & Local Guides: Local journalists and food bloggers are constantly highlighting new and affordable spots. The Times' 101 Best Restaurants guide, for instance, often includes several budget-friendly gems.
- Cash is King (Sometimes): While less common now, some smaller, older establishments (like Huge Tree Pastry) are cash-only. Always keep a few dollars on hand.
- Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover: Many of LA’s most incredible and affordable meals come from unassuming storefronts, food trucks, or even pop-ups in shared spaces. The décor might be simple, but the food speaks volumes.
- Share & Sample: With so many enticing options, consider ordering a few smaller dishes or sharing plates with friends to sample more of the menu and keep costs down.
Beyond the Plate: The Culture of Casual Dining
Eating affordably in LA isn't just about saving money; it's about connecting with the city's diverse communities and culinary traditions. These casual eateries are often family-owned, pouring generations of recipes and passion into every dish. They are community hubs, places where locals gather, stories are shared, and the true, unpretentious spirit of Los Angeles comes alive.
Whether you're craving the spicy kick of a Sichuan noodle soup, the comforting embrace of a Salvadoran pupusa, or the rich layers of a Sonoran taco, LA's affordable and casual dining scene offers an endless array of delicious experiences. So go forth, explore, and eat well—your wallet and your taste buds will thank you.