The Top 5 Budget-friendly Restaurants in Philadelphia is home to many excellent budget-friendly restaurants that offer a wide variety of delicious food options.
From the classic Philly cheesesteaks at Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies to the inventive donut flavors at Federal Donuts, there is something for everyone in this vibrant food scene.
The Reading Terminal Market provides a unique and bustling atmosphere where visitors can sample foods from all over the world, while Sabrina’s Cafe offers an eclectic brunch menu that is sure to impress.
And for those looking for authentic Chinese cuisine, Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is a must-visit. Here is why these restaurants are the best restaurants in Philadelphia for your budget.
1. Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies: This restaurant, one of the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a Philly staple that’s been serving up cheesesteaks and hoagies for over 60 years. Customers rave about the generous portions, quality ingredients, and friendly service. The prices are also very reasonable, making it a great choice for anyone on a budget.
2. Federal Donuts: This popular spot, among the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, specializes in fried chicken and donuts. Customers love the unique flavor combinations and the fact that everything is made fresh to order. The prices are very affordable, with most items priced at under $10.
3. Reading Terminal Market: While not a single restaurant, the Reading Terminal Market, one of the most popular budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a must-visit for anyone looking for budget-friendly eats in Philadelphia. The market is home to over 80 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheese. You can find meals for as little as $5-10, and the variety of options means there’s something for everyone.
4. Sabrina’s Cafe: This brunch spot, another of the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, has several locations throughout the city and is known for its oversized portions and creative twists on classic dishes. Customers rave about the homemade biscuits, stuffed french toast, and crab cake benedict. Prices are very reasonable, with most items priced at under $15.
5. Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House: This Chinese restaurant, amid the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is known for its hand-pulled noodles and flavorful broths. Customers love the authentic taste and generous portions. Prices are also very reasonable, with most dishes priced at under $10.
Each of these restaurants offers delicious food at affordable prices, making them a great choice for anyone looking to dine on a budget in Philadelphia.
Top 5 Budget-friendly Restaurants in Philadelphia
Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies
Address: 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-8pm, Sunday: 12pm-7pm
Phone Number: (215) 482-5407
Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies, one of the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a classic Philly restaurant that has been serving up delicious cheesesteaks and hoagies for over 60 years. The interior of the restaurant is cozy and casual, with a no-frills atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality food at reasonable prices.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the cheesesteak, which is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. Customers can also choose from a variety of other hoagies, sandwiches, and sides.
One unique aspect of Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies is the fact that they offer a variety of different cheeses to choose from when ordering a cheesesteak, including American, provolone, and whiz. The restaurant also offers a vegetarian cheesesteak made with seitan for those who don’t eat meat.
The service at Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies is friendly and efficient. Customers place their orders at the counter and then wait for their food to be prepared. The restaurant is known for its fast service, with most orders being ready within 10-15 minutes.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Cheesesteak – Thinly sliced ribeye steak cooked to perfection with onions and melted cheese, all served on a freshly baked hoagie roll. Customers can choose from American, provolone, or whiz cheese to top their cheesesteak.
▣ Italian Hoagie – This classic sandwich is loaded with Genoa salami, Capacola, prosciutto, and provolone cheese, all topped with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, hot peppers, and oil and vinegar dressing. The sandwich is served on a freshly baked roll.
▣ Veggie Hoagie – A vegetarian option that’s loaded with grilled Portobello mushrooms, roasted red peppers, spinach, provolone cheese, and oil and vinegar dressing. The sandwich is served on a freshly baked roll.
▣ Chicken Cutlet Sandwich – A breaded chicken cutlet topped with marinara sauce and melted provolone cheese, all served on a freshly baked roll.
▣ Italian Sausage Sandwich – A grilled Italian sausage topped with sautéed onions and peppers, all served on a freshly baked roll. Customers can add provolone cheese if they’d like.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the classic cheesesteak with whiz and it was amazing! The steak was tender and flavorful, and the whiz added the perfect amount of creaminess. The portion was huge and very filling. I also appreciated the fast service and friendly staff.”
“I’m a vegetarian, so I ordered the seitan cheesesteak with provolone and it was delicious! The seitan had a great texture and the cheese added a nice flavor. The roll was also very fresh. Overall, a great option for vegetarians who want to try a classic Philly dish.”
“Dalessandro’s is the best cheesesteak spot in Philly, hands down. The meat is always fresh and cooked to perfection, and the cheese is melted just right. I also love the fact that they offer a variety of different cheeses to choose from. Highly recommend!”
In summary, Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious, budget-friendly eats in Philadelphia. The restaurant’s classic cheesesteak is a standout dish, but they also offer a variety of other tasty options. The service is fast and friendly, and the cozy atmosphere makes for a great dining experience. They rank amid the top 5 budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia for good reasons.
Federal Donuts
Address: 1219 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Hours: Monday-Sunday: 7am-7pm
Phone Number: (267) 687-8258
Federal Donuts, among the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a popular restaurant in Philadelphia that serves up delicious fried chicken and freshly made donuts. The interior of the restaurant is bright and modern, with colorful accents and an open kitchen where customers can watch the chefs at work.
The restaurant’s signature dish is the “hot and fresh” donut, which is made to order and served piping hot with a variety of toppings.
In addition to donuts, Federal Donuts is also known for their fried chicken, which is available in a variety of different flavors including buttermilk ranch, honey ginger, and spicy Korean. Customers can order the chicken as part of a meal with sides like coleslaw and potato wedges, or as part of a sandwich on a freshly baked roll.
One unique aspect of Federal Donuts is their “Donut Robot,” which is a machine that can produce up to 1,200 donuts per hour. The machine allows the restaurant to make fresh donuts on demand, ensuring that customers always get a hot and delicious treat.
The service at Federal Donuts is fast and friendly. Customers place their orders at the counter and can either dine in or take their food to go. The restaurant is known for its efficient service, with most orders being ready within just a few minutes.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Fried Chicken – Federal Donuts’ fried chicken is available in several flavors, including buttermilk ranch, honey ginger, and spicy Korean. Customers can order a quarter, half, or whole chicken, and can also get the chicken as part of a sandwich on a freshly baked roll.
▣ “Hot and Fresh” Donuts – These freshly made donuts are cooked to order and served piping hot. Customers can choose from a variety of toppings, such as cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or chocolate glaze. There are also seasonal flavors available, such as apple cider or pumpkin spice.
▣ Chicken and Donuts Combo – This popular meal includes two pieces of fried chicken and two “hot and fresh” donuts. Customers can choose their preferred chicken flavor and donut topping.
▣ Roasted Cauliflower – For those looking for a vegetarian option, Federal Donuts also offers roasted cauliflower with za’atar seasoning and a side of tahini sauce.
▣ Korean Fried Chicken Salad – This salad features mixed greens, pickled vegetables, and crispy Korean fried chicken, all topped with a spicy gochujang dressing. It’s a flavorful and filling option for those looking for a lighter meal.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the spicy Korean fried chicken with a honey donut and it was amazing! The chicken had the perfect amount of spice and the donut was sweet and fluffy. The service was also very fast and friendly.”
“The donuts at Federal Donuts are a must-try! I had the chocolate sea salt donut and it was so rich and decadent. I also appreciated the fact that they make the donuts fresh to order.”
“The buttermilk ranch fried chicken sandwich is out of this world! The chicken is crispy and juicy, and the buttermilk ranch sauce adds a nice tangy flavor. The sandwich is served on a freshly baked roll that’s soft and pillowy. Highly recommend!”
In summary, Federal Donuts is a great option for anyone looking for delicious and affordable fried chicken and donuts in Philadelphia. The restaurant’s signature “hot and fresh” donuts are a standout dish, and their fried chicken is also top-notch. The fast and friendly service and modern atmosphere make for a great dining experience. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia.
Reading Terminal Market
Address: 1136 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8am-6pm, Sunday: 9am-5pm
Phone Number: (215) 922-2317
Reading Terminal Market, one of the most popular budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a historic food hall located in the heart of Philadelphia. The market features over 80 vendors selling a wide variety of food and drinks, ranging from Amish baked goods to authentic Philly cheesesteaks. The interior of the market is bustling and colorful, with vendors calling out to customers and delicious smells wafting through the air.
One of the most popular vendors at Reading Terminal Market is Tommy DiNic’s, which serves up mouthwatering roast pork sandwiches. The sandwich is made with slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone cheese, and broccoli rabe, all served on a freshly baked roll. It’s a must-try dish for anyone visiting the market.
Reading Terminal Market is unique in that it offers a diverse range of cuisine all in one place. Customers can sample everything from traditional Pennsylvania Dutch food to Indian street food. The market also offers cooking classes and events, making it a great destination for foodies.
The service at Reading Terminal Market varies depending on the vendor, but overall it’s fast and friendly. Customers can order food at the counter and then either take it to go or find a spot to sit and enjoy their meal.
Main Menu Items:
Reading Terminal Market is a food hall with over 80 vendors, so it’s hard to narrow down the menu items to just five. However, here are five popular venders that visitors should definitely consider:
▣ Roast Pork Sandwich from Tommy DiNic’s – This sandwich is a Philly classic and a must-try for anyone visiting Reading Terminal Market. The pork is slow-roasted and topped with sharp provolone cheese and broccoli rabe.
▣ Cheesesteaks from Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks – These two vendors have been rivals for decades, but both serve up delicious Philly cheesesteaks with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and onions.
▣ Beiler’s Donuts – Beiler’s is a family-owned bakery that specializes in donuts and other sweet treats. They have a wide variety of flavors to choose from, including chocolate peanut butter, maple bacon, and raspberry filled.
▣ Dutch Eating Place – This Amish-run eatery serves up traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dishes like apple dumplings, shoofly pie, and chicken pot pie. They also offer breakfast items like homemade pancakes and omelets.
▣ Pearl’s Oyster Bar – For seafood lovers, Pearl’s Oyster Bar is a must-visit. They have a variety of fresh seafood options, including raw oysters, lobster rolls, and fried shrimp. They also offer a selection of beers and cocktails to pair with your meal.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the roast pork sandwich from Tommy DiNic’s and it was amazing! The pork was tender and flavorful, and the broccoli rabe added a nice bitterness to balance out the richness of the cheese. The atmosphere at the market was also really fun and lively.”
“Reading Terminal Market is a foodie’s paradise! There are so many options to choose from, it’s hard to decide what to get. I ended up trying the cheese curds from Dutch Eating Place and they were delicious.”
“I love the variety at Reading Terminal Market. I was able to get authentic Philly cheesesteaks from both Pat’s and Geno’s without having to go all the way to South Philly. The market is also great for picking up unique souvenirs and gifts.”
In summary, Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the diverse food scene in Philadelphia. Tommy DiNic’s roast pork sandwich is a standout dish, but there are plenty of other options to explore as well. The market’s lively atmosphere and friendly service make for a great dining experience. They stand out among the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia.
Sabrina’s Cafe
Address: Sabrina’s Cafe has multiple locations in Philadelphia. One of the most popular is located at 910 Christian St, Philadelphia, PA 19147.
Hours: Sabrina’s Cafe is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Phone Number: The phone number for the Christian St location is (215) 574-1599.
Sabrina’s Cafe, another of the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a cozy and inviting restaurant that specializes in comfort food with a modern twist. The interior is rustic and eclectic, with exposed brick walls, colorful artwork, and vintage decor. The menu features a wide range of breakfast and brunch dishes, as well as sandwiches, salads, and entrees for lunch.
One of Sabrina’s Cafe’s most popular dishes is their stuffed challah french toast. This dish features thick slices of challah bread stuffed with sweet cream cheese and topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup. Other popular dishes include their red velvet pancakes, huevos rancheros, and crab cake benedict.
Sabrina’s Cafe is known for its generous portions and creative flavor combinations. The restaurant also prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their dishes.
The service at Sabrina’s Cafe is friendly and attentive. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant can get busy, especially on weekends, but the waitstaff works efficiently to keep things moving.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Stuffed Challah French Toast – Thick slices of challah bread stuffed with sweet cream cheese and topped with fresh berries and syrup. A signature dish at Sabrina’s Cafe.
▣ Red Velvet Pancakes – Fluffy buttermilk pancakes infused with red velvet flavor and topped with cream cheese icing.
▣ Crab Cake Benedict – Poached eggs and crab cakes served on an English muffin and topped with hollandaise sauce. Served with home fries.
▣ Huevos Rancheros – Two eggs any style served on a bed of black beans, tortillas, and topped with salsa, avocado, and sour cream.
▣ Chicken Pesto Panini – Grilled chicken breast topped with pesto sauce, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese, served on a ciabatta roll.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the huevos rancheros and it was fantastic! The portions are huge, so come hungry. The coffee was also really good. This is a great spot for brunch in Philly.”
“The stuffed challah french toast is a must-try! It’s so decadent and delicious. The service was also great – our server was super friendly and attentive.”
“Sabrina’s Cafe is one of my favorite brunch spots in Philly. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the food is always on point. I highly recommend the crab cake benedict – it’s the best I’ve ever had.”
Sabrina’s Cafe is a popular and highly rated restaurant in Philadelphia that serves up delicious comfort food with a modern twist. The stuffed challah french toast is a must-try, but there are plenty of other tasty dishes to choose from as well. The service is friendly and attentive, and the restaurant has a cozy and inviting atmosphere. They have earned the rank of the top 5 budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia.
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House
Address: 1022 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9am-9pm
Phone Number: (215) 923-1550
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House, amid the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia, is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in handmade noodles. The interior of the restaurant is simple and no-frills, with a focus on the delicious food.
One of the signature dishes at Nan Zhou is the hand-pulled noodles, which are made fresh every day and can be customized with a variety of different broth and meat options.
One of the unique features of Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is the fact that they make all of their noodles in-house. The noodles are made by hand using a traditional technique that involves pulling and stretching the dough until it is thin and delicate.
The service at Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is efficient and friendly. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and is always happy to make recommendations or answer questions.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Hand-Pulled Noodle Soup – Customers can choose from a variety of broths including chicken, beef, and vegetable, and then add their choice of meat, tofu, or vegetables to create a delicious and hearty soup. The hand-pulled noodles are the star of the dish, and are made fresh daily in-house.
▣ Steamed Pork Dumplings – These dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork and vegetables, and are served with a soy-based dipping sauce. The dumplings are handmade and cooked to order, ensuring that they are always fresh and delicious.
▣ Spicy Sichuan Noodle Soup – This dish features hand-pulled noodles in a spicy broth that is flavored with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. It also includes sliced beef, vegetables, and peanuts, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal.
▣ Fried Noodles with Vegetables and Chicken – This dish is made with crispy fried noodles that are topped with stir-fried vegetables and chicken. The dish is finished with a savory sauce that adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
▣ Dan Dan Noodles – This dish features thin, hand-pulled noodles in a spicy Sichuan-style sauce that is flavored with chili oil and sesame paste. It also includes minced pork and vegetables, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.
Customer Reviews:
“I ordered the beef noodle soup and it was absolutely delicious. The broth was flavorful and the noodles were perfectly cooked. The beef was tender and melted in my mouth. I also appreciated the generous portions and the affordable prices.”
“The hand-drawn noodles are the best I’ve ever had. The broth is rich and savory and the noodles have the perfect chewiness. I also loved the dumplings, which were stuffed with pork and vegetables and served with a delicious dipping sauce.”
“The service was fast and friendly and the food was amazing. I especially loved the spicy chicken noodle soup, which had just the right amount of heat. The portions were huge and the prices were very reasonable.”
Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House is a must-visit for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine. The handmade noodles and flavorful broths are sure to satisfy any craving, and the affordable prices make it a great option for budget-conscious diners. The service is friendly and efficient, and the simple interior allows the food to take center stage. They can definitely be counted among the top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia.
All of these restaurants in Philadelphia have garnered high praise from customers and continue to be popular destinations for locals and tourists alike. No matter what your budget or food preferences may be, these top budget-friendly restaurants in Philadelphia are sure to delight your taste buds without breaking the bank. This is why they are the best restaurants in Philadelphia for your budget.
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