50 Best Bargain Restaurants In Every State Plus A Few More
Ever found yourself stranded in a new state, stomach growling louder than your GPS recalculating your route, and yearning for a meal that satisfies both your appetite and your wallet?
That’s been my journey, fifty-three times over. From the bustling heart of New York to the quietest corners of Wyoming, I’ve sampled, savored, and (occasionally) survived America’s most beloved bargain eats—plus a few bonus surprises for the truly hungry traveler.
Whether you’re a road-trip rookie or a seasoned foodie, this list promises flavor, fun, and frugality. Buckle up: your taste buds are about to embark on a cross-country adventure!
1. Alabama – Saw’s Soul Kitchen (Birmingham)
If my ribs could talk, they’d sing the praises of Saw’s Soul Kitchen in Birmingham. I rolled in one Sunday afternoon on the hunt for something that tasted like a Southern grandma’s hug—mission accomplished.
Their pulled pork sandwich, smoky and piled high, made me forget every bland meal I’d ever endured. The collard greens have just enough kick to make you sit up and take notice, while the fried green tomatoes practically beg for Instagram fame.
Don’t sleep on their banana pudding; it’s a sweet finale that’ll make you wish your stomach was bottomless. For an authentic taste of the South without emptying your wallet, Saw’s is a must-try. Just bring your appetite and a few extra napkins!
2. Alaska – Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria (Anchorage)
Forget frostbite—my biggest Alaskan chill was waiting for a table at Moose’s Tooth. Anchorage locals practically form a pizza pilgrimage here, and I quickly found out why.
The menu reads like a love letter to cheese, and the inventive toppings (reindeer sausage, anyone?) hit that budget-friendly sweet spot. I watched a snowboarder in full gear devour a slice bigger than my head; I knew I’d found a winner.
Their beer selection is a crowd-pleaser, brewed onsite and perfect after a day braving the Alaskan outdoors. Grab a slice, settle in, and let the North’s tastiest crust warm your soul—no parka required.
3. Arizona – Fry Bread House (Phoenix)
Some folks chase sunsets in Phoenix; I chase fry bread. At Fry Bread House, I discovered the edible equivalent of a desert mirage—crispy, puffy, golden wonders topped with everything from savory beans to sweet honey.
My favorite? The beef taco fry bread—flavorful, filling, and friendlier to my wallet than a cactus in a drought. The welcoming staff made me feel like I was family, and the food made me want to stay forever.
Don’t miss the side of hominy stew (it’ll win over even the pickiest eater). Bonus: the James Beard Award wasn’t just for show; this is true Arizona comfort food at its best.
4. The Chimes – Baton Rouge, Louisiana
If you ever find yourself craving crawfish étouffée in Baton Rouge, The Chimes is a mainstay. With stained-glass windows and the clatter of LSU students, this spot feels like home from the first step inside.
Hearty plates arrive brimming with local seafood, po’boys, and red beans. The prices are gentle, but the portions are anything but. Old-timers will tell you the hush puppies here could compete in any Southern cookoff.
The oyster bar packs out nightly, and for good reason—fresh and affordable. Its legacy stretches four decades, and the flavors keep bringing back generations.
5. Pho 75 – Arlington, Virginia
Walk into Pho 75 and you’ll be greeted by the comforting aroma of simmering broth. Locals swear by the brisket and tendon combination—perfect for rainy afternoons or post-adventure refueling.
The menu is blessedly simple, with prices to please any budget. Green tea and Vietnamese iced coffee are essential sips here.
Each table is set with fresh herbs and lime wedges, waiting to be customized. Despite the no-frills ambiance, the flavors are anything but ordinary. Ask any Arlingtonian; this place is legendary for a reason.
6. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s deep dish debate rages on, but Lou Malnati’s remains a local legend. Here, the crust is both buttery and crisp, cradling layers of cheese and chunky tomato sauce.
Every table tells a story—first dates, birthday parties, lifelong Sunday traditions. The laughter is as thick as the pizza itself.
Despite its fame, Lou Malnati’s keeps prices reasonable, making a classic Chicago pie accessible to all. Don’t skip the house salad; even greens get special treatment here. Generations have grown up savoring slices in these booths.
7. Big Jones – Chicago, Illinois
An unexpected slice of the South in Chicago’s Andersonville, Big Jones is where gumbo and fried chicken get the royal treatment. The recipe for the cornbread reads like an old family letter.
Servers chat about okra season and offer tips for the city’s best blues shows. The biscuits are flaky and arrive hot, wrapped in cloth napkins.
Prices are wallet-friendly, especially for brunch. History buffs will love the menu’s nods to centuries-old Cajun and Creole recipes. Here, nostalgia meets culinary creativity on every plate.
8. El Modelo – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Ask a Burqueño where to find the city’s best tamales and they’ll likely send you to El Modelo. Founded in 1929, this humble spot started as a tortilla shop and never lost its roots.
Try the breakfast burritos loaded with green chile, or sink your fork into a plate of chile rellenos. The staff works with the speed of a well-choreographed dance.
Prices here are as comforting as the food. The menu reads like a love letter to New Mexican flavors, with generous portions and no pretense. The tamale legacy endures.
9. Beauregard’s Thai Room – Richmond, Virginia
Step through a carved doorway and you’re whisked away to Bangkok—in the heart of Richmond. Beauregard’s Thai Room blends Southern hospitality with Thai flavors for a singular experience.
Start your meal with their crispy spring rolls, then savor a bowl of spicy green curry. Each dish arrives artfully presented and bursting with fresh herbs.
Despite the lush ambiance, prices remain accessible. Locals love the creative cocktails and the peaceful patio. This place feels like a secret garden for flavor explorers.
10. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack – Nashville, Tennessee
Rumor has it Prince’s invented Nashville hot chicken as a culinary revenge plot. The result? A fiery institution beloved by heat seekers everywhere.
Crackling skin and juicy meat arrive doused in secret spice blends. Brave diners reach for sweet tea in between bites.
This no-frills eatery lets the food do the talking. The lines are worth it, with prices that let anyone taste the legend. Prince’s has remained a fried chicken icon for generations of Nashvillians.
11. Pizzeria Lola – Minneapolis, Minnesota
Where else but Minneapolis could you top a pizza with kimchi and have it become a city obsession? Pizzeria Lola is known for playful pies blending global flavors.
Owner Ann Kim’s Korean heritage shines through—her creativity lands on every crust. The restaurant’s playful decor and communal tables spark instant conversation.
Pizza is affordable, but the flavors are rich with personality. Whether you’re a classic pepperoni lover or adventurous eater, there’s a slice for you. Bring friends and try something new every time.
12. The Friendly Toast – Portsmouth, New Hampshire
The Friendly Toast feels like a time capsule, with lava lamps, kitschy wall art, and disco tunes. It’s brunch heaven for the creatively inclined.
Pancake stacks tower high and omelets burst with ingredients. The menu is an ode to comfort, offering everything from vegan scrambles to classic eggs Benedict.
Prices are as cheerful as the atmosphere. The staff’s quirky charm keeps regulars coming back for weekend rituals. Even the mugs—collected from thrift shops—feel like a friendly surprise.
13. John’s Roast Pork – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a sandwich lover’s dream, and John’s Roast Pork is a cornerstone. Don’t let the humble facade fool you—inside, history is made with every bite.
The roast pork is juicy, layered with provolone, and topped with garlicky broccoli rabe. Cheesesteaks here rival any in town, at a fraction of tourist prices.
Cash-only, quick service, and picnic tables—this is blue-collar dining at its finest. Locals debate the best order but agree: John’s is a Philadelphia legend.
14. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que – Kansas City, Kansas
Once a gas station, now a barbecue pilgrimage site, Joe’s Kansas City draws crowds for its smoky burnt ends. The line often snakes outside, but the aroma pulls you in.
Classic sides like cheesy corn and creamy slaw round out the meal. Pitmasters here treat their craft with reverence.
Despite its fame, prices are grounded and the portions satisfy. Regulars come for the Z-Man sandwich—a brisket marvel. This spot feels like a backyard cookout, minus the cleanup.
15. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana – New Haven, Connecticut
Frank Pepe’s has served iconic coal-fired pizzas since 1925, making it a New Haven legend. The clam pie is the stuff of pizza folklore, drawing fans from across the country.
The crust is thin, blistered, and slightly smoky, with toppings that honor tradition. Prices have stayed honest, welcoming families and students alike.
Inside, the checkerboard floors and old-school photos add a sense of nostalgia. Whether you’re a regular or a first-timer, Frank Pepe’s feels like a rite of passage.
16. Mother’s Restaurant – New Orleans, Louisiana
Since 1938, Mother’s has been the soul of New Orleans comfort food. Dirty rice, jambalaya, and po’boys fly off the counter to eager diners—locals and tourists alike.
The debris po’boy, packed with roast beef and gravy, is a rite of passage. Prices keep regulars returning, even as the city changes around them.
Historic photos line the walls, hinting at the countless stories born inside. For a true taste of Crescent City hospitality, Mother’s is unmatched and unforgettable.
17. Golden Crown Panaderia – Albuquerque, New Mexico
Golden Crown Panaderia is a feast for the senses, from the aroma of fresh biscochitos to the sight of bubbling green chile bread. This family-run bakery is a neighborhood anchor.
Try the blue corn crust pizza—a local invention that surprises every palate. Pastries are handcrafted, with unique Southwest flavors.
Prices are as sweet as the empanadas. Each visit feels like discovering a new tradition, helped by friendly banter from the counter staff. The bakery’s horno oven is a true centerpiece.
18. Taco Moto – Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha’s Taco Moto proves that street food can spark citywide cravings. Known for its vibrant food truck and bold menu, this spot draws lunch crowds looking for adventure on a budget.
Try the Korean BBQ taco for a fusion twist, or stay classic with carne asada. The truck’s playlist is nearly as famous as the tacos themselves.
Prices are set for sampling, so order a few and share with friends. Each visit feels like a mini festival, complete with friendly faces and unexpected flavors.
19. Fleetwood Diner – Ann Arbor, Michigan
Open around the clock, Fleetwood Diner is Ann Arbor’s answer to late-night hunger. Students and locals mix over Hippie Hash, a mountain of potatoes, veggies, and feta.
The chrome exterior gleams under neon, promising comfort no matter the hour. Coffee flows freely, and breakfast is served with a wink and a story.
Prices suit any pocket, making it a haven for night owls. The jukebox plays an eclectic soundtrack, keeping the diner’s heartbeat lively and unpredictable.
20. Salvatore’s Tomato Pies – Sun Prairie, Wisconsin
Tomato pie might sound East Coast, but in Sun Prairie, Salvatore’s puts a Midwest spin on this classic. Their pies balance tangy sauce with crispy, chewy crusts.
Each pizza is hand-tossed, then topped with local cheeses and inventive ingredients. The vibe feels more supper club than slice joint.
Prices are set for families, and the lunch specials draw a loyal crowd. Regulars rave about the homemade sausage, a true Wisconsin treat. Don’t forget a slice of tiramisu for dessert.
21. Hot Suppa – Portland, Maine
Hot Suppa is where comfort food gets a Maine accent. This Portland favorite serves Southern classics—think shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles—with local ingredients.
Weekend brunch is a lively affair, with the scent of maple syrup mingling with fresh coffee. Prices are fair, and portions encourage lingering conversations.
Owners Moses and Alec Sabina run the place like a neighborhood gathering spot. Even the grits feel like they were made just for you. Every dish is a warm hug from the kitchen.
22. Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Seattle, Washington
Beecher’s Handmade Cheese greets you with the irresistible smell of melting cheddar. Located in Pike Place Market, it’s a haven for cheese lovers and the cheese-curious alike.
The mac and cheese is legendary—rich, creamy, and topped with a golden crust. Shoppers can watch the cheesemakers at work, transforming milk into magic.
Prices are friendly, with ample free samples to entice you. The focus on quality ingredients shines in every bite. Don’t leave without a wedge of Flagship for home.
23. Blue Plate Diner – Salt Lake City, Utah
Since 2001, Blue Plate Diner has been Salt Lake City’s retro breakfast sanctuary. Locals pack in for hearty omelets, fluffy pancakes, and the city’s crispiest hash browns.
The decor mixes old-school diner kitsch with local art. Everything feels both familiar and surprising.
Prices are inviting, encouraging regulars to return. The milkshakes, especially the chocolate malt, are legendary. This spot feels like a step back in time, in the best way possible.
24. Banh Mi Boys – Houston, Texas
Houston’s culinary diversity shines at Banh Mi Boys, where Vietnamese sandwiches get a Texas twist. The menu is a playground of flavors—pickled veggies, crisp baguettes, and spicy mayo.
Order the pork belly for a smoky, savory treat, or the tofu for a satisfying vegetarian option. Lunchtime sees a kaleidoscope of regulars from across the city.
Prices make it easy to try more than one kind. The vibrant murals reflect the joyful energy behind the counter. Each bite is a little adventure in itself.
25. Franklin Barbecue – Austin, Texas
Franklin Barbecue is pure Austin—laid-back, legendary, and a bit of a waiting game. Brisket is the star, smoked low and slow to tender perfection. The first bite is unforgettable.
The line forms early, sometimes before sunrise, as devotees camp out for a taste. Prices remain fair, considering the fame.
Pitmaster Aaron Franklin welcomes guests with genuine hospitality. The sides, from potato salad to beans, are worthy companions. Many consider this barbecue worth the pilgrimage.
26. Biscuit Love – Nashville, Tennessee
Biscuit Love began as a food truck and blossomed into a Nashville brunch staple. Their biscuits—flaky, golden, impossibly light—anchor a menu rooted in Southern tradition.
Try the “Bonuts,” biscuit-doughnut hybrids dusted with sugar. The staff’s contagious energy makes every visit feel like a celebration.
Prices are designed for sharing and sampling. The sunlight pours through wide windows, lighting up happy weekend crowds. This is comfort food, Southern-style, at its most joyful.
27. Sam LaGrassa’s – Boston, Massachusetts
Ask a Bostonian where to find the city’s best sandwich, and Sam LaGrassa’s often tops the list. Pastrami, corned beef, and roast turkey are sliced fresh and piled high.
The fast-paced service is part of the charm. Lunchtime brings in everyone from office workers to sports fans.
Despite the generous portions, prices remain approachable. Each sandwich is a flavor adventure, best enjoyed with a side of house-made pickles. Sam’s has been a family operation for over 50 years.
28. The Busy Bee Cafe – Atlanta, Georgia
Since 1947, The Busy Bee Cafe has been Atlanta’s spot for soul food with soul. The golden fried chicken is legendary, crisp on the outside and tender within.
Mac and cheese, yams, and cornbread fill the menu, each dish brimming with Southern pride. The cafe exudes a welcoming spirit fueled by generations of regulars.
Prices are set so everyone can feast, and the portions guarantee no one leaves hungry. This is comfort food at its most heartfelt and historic.
29. Sam’s No. 3 – Denver, Colorado
A Denver original since 1927, Sam’s No. 3 is the city’s answer to the all-American diner. The menu reads like a greatest hits list—green chile burritos, burgers, and loaded breakfast skillets.
Servers keep the pace brisk, and the colorful decor brings in a mix of locals and visitors. Every meal feels like a celebration, no matter the hour.
Prices are refreshingly old-school, making it a staple for students, families, and night-shift regulars. You never know who you’ll meet over coffee here.
30. D’Elia’s Grinders – Riverside, California
Long before “sub” was a household word, D’Elia’s was serving up massive grinders in Riverside. The bread is baked daily, with a crackly crust and soft interior.
Sandwiches come overflowing with Italian meats, cheese, and veggies. The 1970s decor adds an old-school West Coast vibe.
Prices are kind to lunch budgets, and the portions often make for two meals. Locals insist nothing beats D’Elia’s for a post-hike feast or quick workday treat.
31. Mama’s Fish House – Paia, Hawaii
Mama’s Fish House is a Maui tradition, where the catch of the day might have been swimming just hours before it hits your plate. The open-air setting is pure paradise.
Every dish tells a story—who caught the fish, where it came from, and how it’s prepared. The hospitality is as warm as the island breeze.
The prices are surprisingly accessible for such a magical setting. Eating here is like sharing a meal with family, surrounded by Maui’s natural beauty.
32. Louie Mueller Barbecue – Taylor, Texas
Louie Mueller Barbecue is a temple of smoke and meat in small-town Texas. Since 1949, pitmasters here have perfected the art of brisket—juicy, smoky, and deeply flavorful.
The walls are stained with decades of barbecue smoke, each bite a taste of Texas history. Sausage and ribs share the spotlight, with house-made sauce on the side.
Prices are set for feasting, and regulars travel miles for a meal. This is barbecue as it was meant to be.
33. Ted’s Fish Fry – Albany, New York
Ted’s Fish Fry brings seaside tradition to upstate New York. Since 1949, locals have flocked here for crispy fried fish, tangy tartar sauce, and perfect fries.
The no-nonsense counter service moves fast, with cheerful banter from the staff. The portions are generous, and prices are easy on the wallet.
Regulars order extra coleslaw for a fresh crunch. No trip to Albany is complete without a Ted’s visit, whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-timer.
34. H&H Bagels – New York, New York
Bagel lovers know H&H as a New York icon. Their chewy, hand-rolled bagels have defined city breakfasts for decades. Many swear they’re the gold standard for that true NY texture.
The aroma of baking dough draws crowds from blocks away. Prices are gentle, especially for such a storied location.
Whether you like yours with lox, whitefish, or a simple smear, H&H delivers. The hustle and bustle is pure Manhattan energy, making every visit an experience unto itself.
35. Bluebird Diner – Iowa City, Iowa
Bluebird Diner stands out for its whimsical decor and creative takes on breakfast staples. The buttermilk pancakes are fluffy, and the house-made chorizo gets rave reviews.
Students and locals fill the booths, swapping stories over endless coffee refills. The menu offers both comfort classics and unexpected twists.
Prices welcome frequent visits, and daily specials keep things exciting. The playful atmosphere makes every meal feel like a celebration. Bluebird is Iowa City’s happy breakfast place.
36. Superior Bathhouse Brewery – Hot Springs, Arkansas
Occupying a former bathhouse on Bathhouse Row, this brewery is truly one-of-a-kind. Superior Bathhouse Brewery uses thermal spring water to craft unique, refreshing beers.
Pub food favorites, like burgers and loaded fries, complement the rotating taps. The high ceilings and vintage tile floors create a welcoming vibe.
Prices are brewed for accessibility, and the location in a national park makes it a must-visit. History buffs and beer lovers unite here for something special.
37. Pieous – Austin, Texas
Pieous is where Austin’s pizza lovers gather for wood-fired pies with creative toppings. The dough is naturally leavened for a tangy, chewy bite that stands up to bold flavors.
In addition to pizza, the bakery churns out irresistible pastries. The family-run spirit is evident in every detail, from the chalkboard menus to the homemade pickles.
Prices encourage sampling and sharing. The hill country views outside add to the relaxed, communal feel. Pieous is a slice of Austin’s culinary personality.
38. Palace Diner – Biddeford, Maine
Housed in a 1927 railcar, Palace Diner is Maine’s most beloved tiny eatery. Diners squeeze in for crispy hashbrowns and fluffy pancakes, cooked to order by the duo behind the counter.
The short menu focuses on breakfast and burgers, all made from scratch with local ingredients. Each plate feels like a nostalgic throwback.
Prices are sized for repeat visits, and regulars often chat with the cooks. Palace Diner feels like a secret you’re in on every time you visit.
39. Istanbul Grill – Salt Lake City, Utah
For a taste of Istanbul in the Rockies, locals flock to Istanbul Grill. The aroma of grilled lamb and warm spices greets you before you reach the door.
The menu is a tour of Turkish favorites—doner wraps, lentil soup, and baklava. Everything is prepared with care and served with a smile.
Prices make it easy to indulge, and the cozy ambiance invites lingering. Sharing a meal here feels like joining a Turkish family celebration.
40. La Taqueria – San Francisco, California
La Taqueria is a Mission District legend, famous for its rice-free burritos and crispy tacos. The sizzle from the grill keeps customers hungry as they wait in line.
The carne asada is juicy, the salsa is house-made, and the flavor combinations are endless. Decor is as vibrant as the neighborhood itself.
Prices keep locals coming back, tourists too. The pace is energetic, and every meal feels like a San Francisco tradition in motion.
41. Pollo Campero – Miami, Florida
Pollo Campero brings Guatemalan fried chicken to Miami’s food scene. The chicken is marinated with a signature blend of Latin spices, then fried to golden perfection.
Side dishes like yuca fries and sweet plantains round out the meal. The festive atmosphere draws families from across the city.
Prices are designed for group feasts, making it a go-to for celebrations. The Miami location buzzes with energy and the aroma of fresh, spiced chicken.
42. The Griddle Cafe – Los Angeles, California
Famous for pancakes as big as the plates, The Griddle Cafe is a breakfast lover’s dream. Red velvet and banana Nutella varieties are local favorites—sweet tooths, rejoice.
The Hollywood-inspired decor and energetic crowd make every visit feel like a scene from a movie. Servers move fast, keeping coffee cups full and tables laughing.
Despite its popularity, prices are surprisingly accessible, especially for the portions. Weekends here are a rite of passage for LA brunch fans.
43. Grinders – Kansas City, Missouri
Grinders feels like an art gallery, rock club, and pizza shop rolled together in Kansas City’s Crossroads district. Giant slices and creative toppings fuel the energetic scene.
Sandwiches are stacked high, and the loaded tots are a secret menu favorite. The walls are covered with local art and music memorabilia.
Prices keep the crowd diverse—artists, musicians, and curious foodies alike. Every visit is a little bit of controlled chaos, with flavors as bold as the decor.
44. Bagel Grove – Utica, New York
Bagel Grove is Utica’s answer to the classic New York bagel. Baked onsite daily, bagels come in a dizzying array of flavors—each with the perfect crust and chewy interior.
Sandwiches are piled high with local ingredients, and the coffee is always fresh. The family-run shop has become a local breakfast institution.
Prices are set for regular visits, and staff greet customers by name. Bagel Grove delivers small-town hospitality with every bite.
45. Ono Seafood – Honolulu, Hawaii
Poke is Hawaii’s comfort food, and Ono Seafood is the best-kept secret for locals. The fish is sourced daily and cut to order for unbeatable freshness.
The shoyu and spicy mayo varieties are crowd favorites. Portions are generous, and prices are set for repeat visits.
The shop’s tiny footprint and surf shack vibe make it a true Honolulu treasure. After a beach day, nothing beats a stop at Ono for a bowl of pure island flavor.
46. El Taco Tote – El Paso, Texas
El Paso’s El Taco Tote is a haven for taco aficionados. The self-serve salsa bar lets you customize every bite, with salsas ranging from mild to daringly spicy.
Tacos are freshly grilled to order, with a range of fillings from carnitas to grilled chicken. The colorful dining room is buzzing at lunch and dinner alike.
Prices invite you to try a little of everything. The views of the desert landscape outside make each meal feel uniquely border-town.
47. Banh Mi Ba Le – Chicago, Illinois
Hidden in Chicago’s Argyle neighborhood, Banh Mi Ba Le is a sandwich lover’s paradise. Fresh-baked baguettes form the base for crisp veggies, savory meats, and a secret sauce.
The prices are so friendly, you’ll want to try every variety. The bakery counter is always busy, offering sweet treats to finish your meal.
Each bite is a lesson in balance—crunchy, soft, spicy, and sweet. Regulars keep coming back for the classic BBQ pork and the warm, inviting atmosphere.
48. King’s Chef Diner – Colorado Springs, Colorado
Shaped like a tiny castle, King’s Chef Diner is Colorado Springs’ quirkiest breakfast spot. The green chile hash browns are the stuff of legend and come in portions fit for royalty.
Kids love the playful decor and friendly staff, while adults revisit childhood with every bite. The vibe is pure fun—purple walls and all.
Prices keep the place packed, especially on weekends. This is a fairytale twist on the classic American diner, right at the foot of the Rockies.
49. Dutch Eating Place – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Inside Reading Terminal Market, Dutch Eating Place is an irresistible slice of Pennsylvania Dutch tradition. Pancakes are fluffy, apple dumplings are warm, and the service is famously friendly.
Prices are wallet-sized, perfect for exploring the market’s other treats. The counter lines move fast, fueled by cheerful banter and quick flipping griddles.
Every meal feels like a home-cooked breakfast, even in the heart of busy Philly. This is comfort food with a history that spans generations.
50. The Pantry Restaurant – Little Rock, Arkansas
Tucked away on a tree-lined street, The Pantry feels like a European homecoming. Regulars come for the Czech and German comfort food—think pork schnitzel and creamy potato salad—served with old-world hospitality. The tradition of sharing recipes from generations past creates a sense of nostalgia and warmth that keeps guests returning.
Prices are refreshingly reasonable for such generous portions, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner. Try their house-made sausages, which have earned local legend status. Fun fact: The chef immigrated from Prague, infusing his dishes with authentic charm and a dash of Arkansas flair.
51. Melt Bar And Grilled – Lakewood, Ohio
A grilled cheese sandwich at Melt Bar and Grilled is no ordinary affair. Here, comfort meets creativity, with towering bread-and-cheese creations packed with surprising fillings. The quirky ambiance—think old lunchboxes and neon signage—mirrors the playfulness of the menu.
Affordable prices let diners experiment with wild flavor combinations, like the “Parmageddon” with pierogi and kraut. This spot has become a rite of passage for college students and families alike. Did you know? Melt’s founder once ran a punk rock record store, and that offbeat energy still pulses through every gooey bite.
52. El Arepazo Latin Grill – Columbus, Ohio
People line up early at El Arepazo, drawn by the aroma of sizzling arepas and bold sauces. The secret? Family recipes handed down from Venezuela, blended with Ohio’s love for hearty, satisfying meals. Portions are generous, and the prices are a steal for such vibrant, fresh flavors.
Order the signature cilantro sauce—it’s addictive, and locals put it on everything. The décor bursts with color, echoing the energy of the food and the crowd. El Arepazo started as a humble food cart; now it’s a celebrated gathering spot for both Latinx families and foodies of every stripe.
53. Jack Stack Barbecue – Kansas City, Missouri
Barbecue lovers know Jack Stack as a temple of smoke and spice. The burnt ends are legendary—smoky, caramelized, and piled high—while the cheesy corn bake has its own fan club. Despite its fame, Jack Stack keeps prices fair, making premium barbecue an everyday treat.
The friendly staff treat newcomers like regulars, and the aroma of hickory lingers long after you leave. Jack Stack traces its roots back to a small family-run storefront in the 1950s, and that spirit of hospitality lives on in every plate.