Cheap Eats in NYC, From Takeout Counters to Sing-Alongs

3.7 (178)

Mon, 11:00 – 21:00; Tue – Thu, 11:00 – 22:30; Fri, 11:00 – 23:15; Sat – Sun, 12:22 – 22:22

224-01 Merrick Blvd

Inexpensive Chinese takeout anchors this Queens neighborhood standby at 224-01 Merrick Blvd. Staff are accommodating, letting diners tailor an order from a broad menu and sometimes taking orders close to closing time. Friday hours run until 11:15 PM.

4.0 (123)

Mon – Sun, 11:00 – 23:30

863 E 149th St

In the Bronx, this tiny takeout counter at 863 E 149th St has a kitchen but no tables. Some local families have ordered its Chinese takeout and delivery as far back as 2018, praising low prices and kind drivers. Doors stay open until 11:30 PM daily.

4.5 (906)

Mon, Sun, 16:00 – 23:00; Tue – Thu, 16:30 – 23:30; Fri – Sat, 16:00 – 01:00 (+1)

212 E 9th St

Students and locals pre-game at this East Village room on E 9th St, trading sing-alongs over inexpensive Asian fusion bites and strong, cheap drinks. Tables sit tight and staff move fast. Bring cash for a discount, and note Friday and Saturday hours run to 1:00 AM.

3.8 (152)

Mon – Fri, 05:30 – 17:00; Sat, 06:00 – 15:00

339 Broadway

Breakfast starts at 5:30 AM on weekdays at this Tribeca market on Broadway, with an affordable menu. Lunch brings counter-service salads, sandwiches and a buffet at 9.99 dollars per pound. Weekdays close at 5:00 PM, Saturday at 3:00 PM, and Sunday stays closed.