49 Best Budget Restaurants in Orlando (Updated 2024)

It’s no secret that finding cheap eats in Orlando is getting increasingly difficult. However, several places still offer delicious meals for a fantastic price.

I’ve included as many local, independently-owned restaurants as possible. However, a few chain restaurants are also on this list for those who like familiarity.

Top 3 Places to Eat on a Budget in Orlando

Not got the time to look through the entire list of best restaurants? No problem. Here are my three favourite budget restaurants in Orlando.

best budget place to eat in Orlando

Lazy Moon Pizza

Lazy Moon Pizza has two locations in Orlando: University Boulevard and Mills 50. However, both serve delicious pizzas by the slice or whole that will impress the whole family.

best budget place to eat at Universal Orlando

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

This baseball-themed restaurant at Universal CityWalk is the perfect place to pick up a budget bite after a long day at the theme parks.

best budget place to eat at Walt Disney World

Chicken Guy!

This fast, casual restaurant from celebrity chef Guy Fieri is located in Disney Springs and specialises in (you guessed it) chicken.

Best Places to Eat in Orlando on a Budget

Not convinced by my top three picks? Well, I’ve visited Orlando more than ten times in the past decade. As such, I know all the cheap places to eat in the city and near the theme parks.

1. Bread Box

📍 Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Bread Box

Bread Box is an excellent option for lunch at Universal Orlando. This gourmet sandwich shop is one of the cheapest places to eat at Universal CityWalk.

Bread Box serves a mouth-watering selection of fresh deli sandwiches and melts for $12.99 or less. There’s also the option to add sides such as fries, tater tots, or coleslaw to any sandwich for just $2.50.

2. Sofrito Latin Café

📍 Location: 8607 Palm Pkwy, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Sofrito Latin Café

Just a few miles from Walt Disney World, Sofrito Latin Café is an excellent choice for either lunch or dinner.

From Cuban sandwiches to Venezuelan arepas, plenty of affordable food is on the menu here. However, if you’re hungry, I suggest the plate of roast pork for $12, which comes with three sides and a salad.

3. TaKo Cheena

📍 Location: 948 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Tako Cheena

TaKo Cheena is a fantastic place for lunch or dinner in Downtown Orlando. This bustling eatery serves tacos, burritos, and arepas with an Asian twist.

Plenty of fun and delicious items are on the menu here, from Thai Peanut Chicken tacos to Korean Beef burritos. Meanwhile, the generous portions mean you can enjoy a filling meal here for under $15.

4. Mamak Asian Street Food

📍 Location: 1231 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Mamak Asian Street Food

Mamak Asian Street Food was inspired by the street food stalls of Southeast Asia. Located in Downtown Orlando, this local restaurant serves hearty and delicious food at a very affordable price.

Some of my favourite menu items include:

Char Kway Teow
Indian Mee Goreng
Roti Canai

5. Bartaco

📍 Location: 7600 Dr Phillips Blvd Suite 28, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Bartaco

One of the best places for tacos near the Universal Orlando Resort is Bartaco. This place serves tacos at just $2.50 apiece. Plus, it’s open until 11:00 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends, making it a great place to grab a cheap meal after a day at the parks.

6. Se7en Bites

📍 Location: 617 Primrose Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Se7en Bites

If you’re looking for authentic Southern comfort food, check out Se7ven Bites. This restaurant and bakery serves an all-day breakfast and lunch menu at prices that won’t break the bank. Some of my favourite menu items include:

Buttermilk garlic biscuits and gravy
Chicken pot pie

7. Gringos Locos

📍 Location: 517 E Michigan St, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Gringos Locos

Gringos Locos is sure to be a hit with the whole family. This place is famous for its Double D’s tacos, soft and hard tortillas wrapped together with taco fillings.

Alongside fantastic food, Gringo Locos also has a daily happy hour from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. During this time, you can get tacos for $3.00, burritos for $7.49, and free chips and salsa.

8. Chicken Guy!

📍 Location: Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Chicken Guy!

Chicken Guy! is one of the best places to eat on a budget at Disney Springs. This casual diner by celebrity chef Guy Fieri specialises in, you guessed it, chicken.

Combo meals here, which include tenders or a chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink, start from just $11.49.

9. Beefy King

📍 Location: 424 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Beefy King

Beefy King is a family-owned restaurant that has been in business for over 50 years.

There is little variety to the menu here. However, it is the best place to come if you want a mouthwatering roast beef sandwich – or a full meal for under $10!

10. Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria

📍 Location: 67 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria

Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria is one of the best lunch spots in Downtown Orlando. This shop serves unique gourmet sandwich creations that won’t break the bank.

Alongside a delicious sandwich, be sure to try one of the teas here. There’s a wide selection available rarely found elsewhere in the city.

11. Mrs. Potato

📍 Location: 4550 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Mrs Potato

Mrs. Potato is an award-winning restaurant less than ten minutes from Universal Orlando. Mrs. Potato is one of the best places in Orlando for Brazilian food – and all meals cost less than $20!

As you might have guessed from the name, this restaurant has a potato-heavy menu with loaded fries and baked potatoes being the base of most meals.

12. Border Grill Fresh-Mex

📍 Location: 5695-A Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Border Grill Fresh-Mex

If you’re looking for great Mexican food in Orlando at an affordable price, then Border Grill Fresh-Mex is the place for you. Although the restaurant is relatively small, they have a sizeable made-to-order menu. Meanwhile, dishes include:

Burritos
Enchiladas
Tacos
Fajitas

13. Tu Casa

📍 Location: 9251 S Orange Blossom Trl STE 10, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Tu Casa

Tu Casa is a fantastic restaurant serving authentic Dominican food at great prices.

You can fill up on a plate of rice, beans, and your choice of steak, chicken, pork, or shrimp for under $10. Tu Casa also serves breakfast sandwiches, making this a great place to stop and fuel up in the morning.

14. Sticky Rice

📍 Location: 1915 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Sticky Rice

Sticky Rice is a popular restaurant in Downtown Orlando known for its mouthwatering Laotian street food.

This is an excellent place for a budget-friendly lunch or dinner. The menu mainly consists of small plates, which are great for sharing with a group.

15. Banh Mi Nha Trang

📍 Location: 1216 E Colonial Dr Suite # 9, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Banh Mi Nha Trang

If you’re looking for a quick and cheap bite, this takeout-only sandwich shop is the perfect place.

Sandwiches are only $5 and made fresh. There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options on the menu too.

16. Q’Kenan

📍 Location: 8117 Vineland Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Q’Kenan

One of the best affordable restaurants near Disney World is Q’Kenan. This family-owned Venezuelan restaurant offers a variety of hearty menu items. Some of my favourites include:

Arepas
Cachapas
Burgers

17. Hot Dog Hall of Fame

📍 Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Hot Dog Hall of Fame

If you want to save money on food at Universal Orlando, check out the Hot Dog Hall of Fame. Located at Universal CityWalk, this fast food restaurant serves the best hot dog I’ve ever had.

Hot dogs here start from just $8.99, while a combo can be had for as little as $15.

18. Beth’s Burger Bar

📍 Location: 9938 Universal Blvd #120, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Beth’s Burger Bar

Beth’s Burger Bar is a local favourite with several locations around Orlando. This vibrant burger joint serves incredible smash burgers and several plant-based options. There’s also live music here most evenings.

19. King Bao

📍 Location: 710 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: King Bao

Located in Downtown Orlando, King Bao serves delicious bao buns stuffed with creative fillings. This small counter-service store is excellent for a budget bite, with bao buns priced between $3 and $3.75 each.

20. Lazy Moon Pizza

📍 Location: 1011 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Lazy Moon Pizza

One of the best pizza spots in Orlando has to be Lazy Moon. These gourmet pizzas can be ordered by the slice (and the slices are enormous) or as a whole.

Lazy Moon has a wide selection of craft beers alongside delicious pizza, making this a great dinner spot in Downtown Orlando.

21. Earl of Sandwich

📍 Location: Disney Springs, Lake Buena Vista, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Earl of Sandwich

Looking for affordable food at Disney Springs? Then look no further than the world-famous Earl of Sandwich.

Serving a range of sandwich combos on artisan bread, Earl of Sandwich is sure to impress even the fussiest of eaters.

22. Winter Park Biscuit Co.

📍 Location: 3201 Corrine Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Winter Park Biscuit Co.

Winter Park Biscuit Co. specialises in plant-based comfort food, making it popular with vegans and non-vegans alike. With reasonably priced biscuits and other menu items, you can enjoy a super healthy bite to eat here without breaking the bank.

23. Bumblebee Man’s Tacos

📍 Location: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Bumblebee Man’s Tacos

It’s no secret that food prices at Universal Orlando can be high. However, there are still several places inside the theme parks where you can get a great meal on a budget. One such place is Bumblebee Man’s Tacos.

Located in the Springfield area of Universal Studios, this taco truck is the best place to pick up tasty and affordable Mexican food.

24. Black Bean Deli

📍 Location: 1835 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Black Bean Deli

Black Bean Deli is an affordable and authentic Cuban cuisine. This incredible restaurant offers a delicious range of Cuban food. Better still, there are two branches to choose from, one in Winter Park and another in Mills 50.

25. Hawkers Asian Street Fare

📍 Location: 1103 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Hawkers Asian Street Fare

Also located in Mills 50 is Hawkers Asian Street Fare. This authentic Asian street food restaurant serves delicious noodles and dim sum at a fantastic price.

26. Casey’s Corner

📍 Location: Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Casey’s Corner

Casey’s Corner is the best place to eat at Magic Kingdom on a budget. This quick-service restaurant is located at the end of Main Street and serves a range of delicious hot dogs.

Given the popularity of Casey’s Corner, the queues here around lunchtime can be rather long. As a result, I recommend placing a mobile order using the Walt Disney World mobile app.

27. Hot Krust Panini Kitchen

📍 Location: 8015 Turkey Lake Rd #200, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Hot Krust Panini Kitchen

Hot Krust Panini Kitchen serves a range of made-to-order:

Wraps
Salads
Paninis

Situated on Turkey Lake Road, this place is open every day from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm. Plus, the menu includes halal, vegan and gluten-free options.

28. Plant Street Market

📍 Location: 426 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Plant Street Market

Situated in the historic downtown Winter Garden is Plant Street Market. You’ll find 20 vendors here, all specialising in individual foodie experiences.

Think natural, think organic, think handmade, think artisan. This place has it all inside one roof. Choose from empanadas, oysters, sushi, tacos, mac & cheese & more. There’s something for everyone here.

29. Hash House A Go Go

📍 Location: 5350 International Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Hash House A Go Go

Hash House A Go Go is one of Orlando’s most popular budget restaurants. Situated on International Drive, this place has served Midwest-inspired food for over two decades.

The menu at Hash House A Go Go is extensive and includes a range of brunch and dinner options. Some of my favourites include:

Shrimp scampi
Pot roast
Grilled salmon
The big o’chicken pot pie

30. ABC Commissary

📍 Location: 351 S Studio Dr, Kissimmee, FL
⌨️ Learn More: ABC Commissary

If you’re looking for budget food at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, then be sure to check out ABC Commissary. This large quick-service food spot has loads of seating and serves a range of delicious meals.

Despite ABC Commissary being one of the biggest restaurants at Hollywood Studios, I’d still suggest placing a mobile order. That way, you won’t have to stand and wait in line for your food.

31. Reyes Mezcaleria

📍 Location: 821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Reyes Mezcaleria

Situated in the vibrant North Quarter District of Downtown is the popular Reyes Mezcaleria.

The mission of Reyes Mezcaleria is “to honour the cuisine, spirits and culture of Mexico”. The restaurant offers thoughtfully prepared cuisine using the best ingredients possible.

32. IHOP

📍 Location: 6005 International Drive, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: IHOP

I don’t think IHOP needs much of an introduction. This family-friendly pancake house has three locations in Orlando – one north of Universal and two on International Drive.

The best part of visiting IHOP is that you know exactly what to expect, which makes it perfect for fussy eaters. Meanwhile, the extensive menu means that there’s something for everyone.

33. NYPD Pizza

📍 Location: 13586 Village Park Dr, Suite 310. Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: NYPD Pizza

If you’re looking for an authentic New York-style pizza, look no further than NYPD Pizza. Founded in 1996, there are three NYPD Pizza stores in Orlando.

Metro West
Hunters Creek
Lake Cay

34. JAM Hot Chicken

📍 Location: 400 W New England Ave #13, Winter Park, FL
⌨️ Learn More: JAM Hot Chicken

JAM Hot Chicken is one of the best places for budget food in the Winter Park area. This place serves precisely what you’d expect. Chicken.

Each item on the menu is customisable based on your heat preferences. From plain through to JAM – which is so hot it comes with a warning!

35. Dixie Belle’s Cafe

📍 Location: 7125 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Dixie Belle’s Cafe

Dixie Belle’s Cafe is one of the best family restaurants in Orlando. However, unlike other restaurants, Dixie Belle’s Cafe is only open from 6:00 am until 1:30 pm.

That means the only dishes you can get here are breakfast-based. However, I don’t think that’s an excuse to skip dining here, as the food is incredible!

36. Shake Shack

📍 Location: 8359 International Drive. Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Shake Shack

There are several Shake Shacks in the Orlando area. Popular locations include:

ICON Park
Florida Mall
Mall at Millenia

The burgers, fries, and, of course, shakes are second to none. The meat is all free of hormones with no antibiotics. Meanwhile, the beef is Angus, and the chicken comes from cage-free birds.

37. McDonald’s

📍 Location: 6875 Sandlake Rd Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: McDonald’s

Orlando is home to the largest McDonalds in the world. Situated on International Drive, this McDonald’s is set across two floors and features an indoor jungle gym and arcade.

While you may be craving your typical McDonald’s order, this McDonald’s has a custom menu you’ve likely never seen before.

French toast for breakfast? Not a problem.
Pizza and pasta for lunch? Sure thing.
Gourmet cake with your coffee? Absolutely.

38. Pio Pio

📍 Location: 5803 Precision Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Pio Pio

Looking for some Latin food while in Orlando? Then, be sure to check out Pio Pio. This delicious restaurant serves various Peruvian and Colombian dishes at affordable prices.

Pio Pio is famous for its rotisserie chicken and ceviche. Meanwhile, most meals here cost less than $15!

39. La Fiesta Mexican Grill

📍 Location: 3000 Curry Ford Rd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: La Fiesta Mexican Grill

La Fiesta Mexican Grill is another fantastic Mexican worth checking out in Orlando. This place offers an array of authentic Mexican dishes, including:

Tacos
Enchiladas
Burritos

Better still, most menu items here are pocket-friendly at under $12.

40. Pho 88

📍 Location: 730 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Pho 88

Pho 88 is one of the best Vietnamese spots in Orlando. The extensive menu here offers a delicious taste of authentic Vietnamese classics. Better still, most dishes here cost less than $12.

41. Firehouse Subs

📍 Location: 1790 Sand Lake Rd, Downtown Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Firehouse Subs

Firehouse Subs is another fantastic budget food option in Orlando. This fantastic chain restaurant offers hearty subs filled with fresh ingredients. Most sandwiches here are under $10, making them great value for money.

42. Grilled Cheezus

📍 Location: 912 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Grilled Cheezus

Grilled Cheezus is one of my favourite go-to lunch spots in Orlando. There are currently two Grilled Cheezus locations:

Mills 50
Downtown Orlando

I’ve been to both and find the Downtown Orlando one to have more atmosphere. Nevertheless, both venues offer delicious grilled cheese sandwiches with a twist.

43. Mythos

📍 Location: Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando Resort, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Mythos

Mythos is a multi-award-winning theme park restaurant and the best place to eat at Islands of Adventure.

This is one of the few full-service restaurants inside Islands of Adventure. However, that doesn’t mean it still doesn’t offer great value for money. Inspired by Mediterranean, Asian, and American fare, dishes include:

Beef Loin Medallions
Pad Thai
Souvlaki Couscous

44. Panda Express

📍 Location: 4064 Millenia Blvd. Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Panda Express

The well-known restaurant chain Panda Express is a great cheap place to eat in Orlando. This restaurant offers a variety of Chinese-American dishes and has several locations across the city.

45. Chicken Fire

📍 Location: 2425 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Chicken Fire

Chicken Fire is a great budget restaurant in Orlando, perfect for spice enthusiasts. This fantastic restaurant offers mouth-watering spicy chicken dishes for under $15. However, given the spice, you’ll likely need a drink or two to go with it.

46. Christo’s Cafe

📍 Location: 1815 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Christo’s Cafe

Are you looking for a classic American dinner experience while in Orlando? Then check out Christo’s Cafe. This restaurant boasts a vast menu with most dishes under $15, ensuring a hearty meal at a great price.

47. Blaze Pizza

📍 Location: 4100 N Alafaya Trail Suite 113, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Blaze Pizza

There are two Blaze Pizzas in Orlando. One in East Orlando and another at Disney Springs. Both venues serve delicious pizza on a budget. Meanwhile, their quick-fired ovens ensure you always get your food quickly.

48. Saigon Noodle & Grill

📍 Location: 101 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Saigon Noodle & Grill

Saigon Noodle & Grill is an authentic Vietnamese restaurant serving dishes for under $12. The cosy atmosphere here is welcoming, and the portion sizes are plentiful.

49. Panera Bread

📍 Location: 6424 South Semoran Blvd, Orlando, FL
⌨️ Learn More: Panera Bread

There are several Panera Bread franchises in Orlando. All serve a fantastic selection of soups, salads and sandwiches.

Most items here are under $12, while the “You Pick Two” promotion allows you to combine half a sandwich with a cup of soup or a small salad.