If you’re lucky enough to be a San Diego native or frequent visitor, you’re in for an exciting fast food experience. The seaside city is home to a number of unique restaurants with styles ranging from Mexican to Middle Eastern to Southern Californian cuisine.
Thankfully, for folks wanting to eat out on a budget, there are plenty of delicious and affordable options. Here are 8 of the best:
1) The Crack Shack
Price: $10 – $15
This restaurant chain is starting to take off in the West. With an all-star chef at the helm, nearly every menu item features free-range, organic chicken marinated to juicy perfection. You’ll also find sides like deviled eggs, Schmaltz fries, and mini biscuits.
If you have time, you can hang out and play a game of bocce ball, or pull up to the bar for a craft beer. For the Crack Shack experience, try the Senor Croque sandwich.
2) Board & Brew
Price: $10 – $15
This casual sandwich shop has been all about “quality sandwiches and craft beer” since its founding in 1979. With a location right in Petco Park, you’ve got easy access to a specialty sandwich or salad if you’re taking-in a Padres game.
They have multiple sandwich options, 3 house salads to choose from and a “Special Sauce” that has regulars hooked. If you need gluten-free, try the Baja Wrap
3) Nico’s Mexican Food
Price: $7 – $12
While it may not be much to look at, the authentic Mexican fare at this tried and true restaurant has people going out of their way to stop in for a burrito or enchilada. With the most expensive menu item (a Carnitas Plate or a Carne Asada Plate) priced at only $10, folks on a budget are in luck. (Make sure to bring cash – no checks or cards are accepted.)
Our recommendation is to get one of their huge Breakfast Burritos. Otherwise, try the rolled tacos or the California burrito.
4) Super Sergio’s
Price: $7 – $12
Burritos, enchiladas, tacos, tortas – Super Sergio’s has it all. Buried amidst several Asian restaurants, this Mexican restaurant could definitely qualify as a “hole-in-the-wall” gem. The menu is extensive and the double drive through makes for easy access.
This is our favorite California Burrito in all of San Diego. If you’re not feeling up to it, try the Rolled Tacos or the Pollo Asada Burrito. This place is open late, so take your time.
5) Litl’ Pepper Gourmet
Price: $10 – $15
You don’t need to look further than the menu to see why Litl’ Pepper is gourmet. Sporting a full host of options including breakfast, soups, salads, wraps, desserts, and of course, gourmet sandwiches, this restaurant is more than just a sandwich shop.
With sandwich choices like The Barcelona, Jurassic Pork, and The Firework, you won’t get bored. If you’re in a hurry, hop online and place your order ahead of time.
6) The Taco Stand
Price: $10 – $15
As you make your way through the linde you’ll see a friendly reminder: “Everything is made fresh when ordering.” With house-made corn tortillas and Mexican style pop-cycles, the Taco Stand’s goal is to let you experience Tiujana cuisine north of the border.
Once you’ve picked from one of the multiple taco options, swing past the salsa bar to find the perfect topping. If you want something out of the ordinary, try the Corn on the Cob or the Nopal (cactus) Taco.
7) Tahini
Price: $12 – $17
Tahini, cucumber yogurt, and garlic sauces set the tone at this middle eastern restaurant. To create your preferred Mediterranean experience, choose from falafel, chicken Shawarma, or steak Shawarma, then turn it into a pita, bowl or salad.
Moody and Osama started dishing up street food back in 2013 and 6 years later, they’ve created a unique taste of the East that has San Diegans lining up for more. Their goal: “to pay homage to the street food that inspired us and to bring the experience of good food, family, and community to the streets of San Diego.”
8) Flame Broiler
Price: $10 – $15
With 6 locations in the San Diego area, you’ll be able to drop into a Flame Broiler location no matter what you’re doing in town. This restaurant is all about the nutrition: “Flame Broiler Is dedicated to serving you delicious, fast, and healthy food!”
You can choose from flame-broiled chicken, steak, or tofu to top your veggies, rice or salad. (Half & Half bowls are also an option if you want to try 2 flavors at once.) For an extra kick, try their double or triple hot sauce on top.
Finding quality food on a budget is hard to do in San Diego but now you’ve got some great options. Living well while staying financially healthy is something we’re passionate about. Thankfully, your budget won’t keep you away from these great foods that San Diego has to offer.
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