Budget Eats in NYC From Roman Squares to Halal Plates

4.8 (93)

Mon – Thu, Sun, 12:00 – 20:00; Fri – Sat, 12:00 – 21:00

38 Avenue B

Roman square slices at this East Village counter on Avenue B start with dough fermented 72 to 96 hours, giving a charred underside and a soft, chewy interior. Toppings run to gorgonzola and pear, yellow tomato ragu is cooked daily, and breakfast focaccia is on offer.

4.6 (5)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 23:00

98 Mott St

Hand-pulled noodles in Chinatown come in portions roughly 50 percent larger than neighboring spots at Beifang Famous Foods on Mott St. Regulars favor the A1 and A3 items, bowls run about 12 dollars, and the mild spice setting carries more heat than expected.

4.1 (539)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 21:00

51 Bayard Street

Cantonese comfort cooking on Bayard Street happens in view of diners, from seafood to large family-style meals. Salt and pepper squid is prized for its wok hei, crispy chicken and clay pot casseroles follow, and portions are generous in a tight, no-frills room.

3.9 (78)

Mon – Sat, 06:00 – 16:00

5121 2nd Ave

Halal plates at this Brooklyn corner cafe on 2nd Ave come down to two clear choices, grilled chicken over rice with white sauce or lamb gyro with seasoned fries. Service is consistent and portions solid. Open Monday through Saturday, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM.