Looking for tasty, budget-friendly meals in Nashville? This music city is packed with hidden gem eateries and local favorites that won’t break the bank. Whether you want crispy fried chicken, hearty Southern biscuits, or flavorful street tacos, Nashville’s affordable food scene delivers every time. City known for its cozy neighborhood spots, from Midtown’s bustling streets to East Nashville’s vibrant atmosphere for quick, delicious bites. Nashsee’s ultimate guide to cheap eats Nashville includes classic diners, hole-in-the-wall joints, and best affordable restaurants in Nashville serving big flavors at small prices with under-the-radar food stands.
Best affordable restaurants in Nashville?
cheap places to eat in Nashville include Hattie B’s Hot Chicken serving spicy hot chicken plates around $12-18, Arnold’s Country Kitchen offering meat-and-three combos for $15-25, and Mas Tacos Por Favor with tacos priced $10-20 per meal. The best part? You can enjoy Nashville’s famous food culture without overspending. Just bring your appetite and get ready to eat well!
Best Cheap Restaurants in Nashville by Neighborhood, Cuisine & Price (2025 Local Guide)
Check out our top finds of the best cheap restaurants in Nashville below—all personally tested by our professional team to bring you the real gems. From classic diners and hole-in-the-wall spots to hidden gems serving mouthwatering bar food and spicy Southern cuisines, these inexpensive establishments showcase the city’s rich culinary landscape. Whether you’re craving hearty portions, unforgettable flavors, or simply searching for a cheap restaurant near me or the best places to eat on a budget in Nashville, this treasure trove of charming dives and beloved institutions caters to every palate—because great food and good times truly await in every corner of this town.
Exclusively Designed Cheap Eats Nashville List That Saves You Money
| Neighborhood | Top Restaurants | Cuisine Type | Best For | Signature Items & Deals | Avg. Price |
| Downtown | Bill’s Sandwich Palace, Woodlands, Central BBQ, Varillo’s | American, Indian, BBQ, Diner | Lunch, Dinner, Late-night | Rotating sandwichesPaneer curry$2 sliders TuesdaysChili | $6–$12 |
| East Nashville | Mickey’s Tavern, SS Gai, Dino’s, Sweeza, Twilight Tavern, Brown’s Diner | Thai, Burgers, Mexican, Bar Food | Dive eats, Late-night, Casual | Street Thai chickenBest burgers$7 burger + $2 friesDouble BLT | $7–$13 |
| Berry Hill | King Tut’s food truck, Deg Thai, Siam Cafe | Egyptian, Thai | Food-truck, Dinner | Fried riceSambusasGuy Fieri-featured eats | $6–$10 |
| Charlotte Ave / West Nashville | Charlotte Pike food truck, Huong Tofu, VN Deli, Kien Giang, InterAsian Market | Vietnamese, Asian deli | Quick lunch, Takeout | Banh miPhoHousemade tofuAsian groceries | $5–$9 |
| Madison | Garden Fresh, Pupuseria Reina La Bendición, The Horn | Mexican, Central Am., African | Cultural takeout | Birria tacos, pupusas, sambusas | $6–$10 |
| Antioch | Gojo, Amy’s Ethiopian | Ethiopian | Casual dining, Spicy eats | Injera platters, vegetarian combos | $7–$11 |
| The Nations | Centennial Cafe | Southern breakfast | Under $10 breakfast | Biscuits & gravy, omelets, toast | $6–$9 |
| Hillsboro Village / 21st Ave | Brown’s Diner | Diner classic | Iconic burger stop | Cheap burgers, historic vibe | $5–$9 |
| Fairview | Country Cafe | Southern buffet | All-you-can-eat meals | $7–$8 buffet + $1.50 drink/pie | $7–$9 |
| Goodlettsville | Liz’s Country Kitchen | Meat & three | Comfort lunch | Daily specials, down-home vibe | $6–$9 |
| Gallatin | Ghotz Wings | Wings & casual | Quick casual dinner | Affordable wing baskets | $7–$10 |
| Green Hills | Petit Gourmand | French café | Light lunch or breakfast | Baked goods, specialty café fare | $6–$10 |
We’ve found the best cheap restaurants in Nashville offering great food and big savings. Read our in-depth guide below.
Hoang Tofu
📍Charlotte Pike, Nashville 
In Nashville’s bustling food landscape, this small mom-and-pop shop stands out for its authentic Vietnamese flavors straight from Vietnam. Their secret? A great backyard operation where they make their own tofu daily and bake bread in-house. The result: fantastic $5 banh mi – perfectly made Vietnamese sandwiches with crispy toasted bread and traditional Vietnamese ham that rank among the city’s best deals. The tiny space offers just three tables for sit-down meals, but most regulars know to get their food to go. Whether it’s their signature Vietnamese steam rice rolls with pork or other fresh-tasting specialties (perfect for those particular day cravings), every dish delivers authentic flavors. Don’t expect fancy silverware settings or big greetings – just grab a seat if you can, maybe a napkin, and enjoy down-home Vietnamese comfort food. It’s the kind of hidden gem that makes you want to recommend it to everyone and keeps you coming back again and again – proof that Nashville’s food scene goes far beyond hot chicken.
La Mulita Express #2
📍Charlotte Pike, Nashville This beloved food truck serves up very good Mexican street food with a nice menu of authentic favorites at reasonable prices. From their loaded beef quesadilla (a go-to for many) to perfect tacos topped with sweet pickled carrots and beets as garnish, every item delivers delicious flavors. The great service and years of experience show why regulars call this the absolute best Mexican street food in town – our review confirms it’s one of Nashville’s best kept secrets. For the complete experience, grab a bottled beverage and enjoy your meal next-door at Mi Favorita Supermercado while you wait. Trust us – once you try their cheese-loaded specialties with those signature pickled carrots, you’ll understand why people recommend La Mulita Express #2 as their favorite Mexican food truck in Nashville.
Dino’s
📍Gallatin Ave, Nashville 
If you’re after the best cheeseburger in town, head straight to Dino’s—a true East Nashville staple and one of the only spots that locals genuinely vouch for. I went to Dino’s not expecting much, but left wanting more, completely sold on its charm and flavor. The experience alone inspired this post. Set on East Gallatin, this hole-in-the-wall burger joint offers everything you want from an old-school dive burger spot: cozy digs, a super lively vibe, outdoor patio with picnic-table style seating, and that unfiltered, divey ambience in the best of ways. Whether you’re eating or drinking, it’s the perfect place to catch a meal with friends—especially when the mood calls for great food and casual hangovers. The burger itself is the star—so good, juicy, and packed with real flavor that beats out plenty of gourmet burgers in town. It’s exactly what an old-fashioned dive burger should be. The value here is incredible: awesome prices, quality food, and a super low bill that makes every bite feel even better. The service was good, with a system that’s fast and easy—order at the bar, pay on the spot, and in 10–15 minutes, your burgers are delivered to the table. There’s parking available right in front, and while there are no reservations, you won’t mind waiting. This small establishment captures everything that makes Nashville food great—laid-back, honest, and full of flavor. Simply put, what’s not to love? Once you go, you’ll see why Dino’s has earned its place among the best dive burgers around.
Vĩnh Long Restaurant
📍Murfreesboro Pike, Crescent Plaza Tucked inside a small shopping mall just a 10-minute drive from downtown Nashville, Vĩnh Long is a true hole-in-the-wall gem that’s easy to overlook—but absolutely worth your attention. This privately owned, cash-only business in Crescent Plaza delivers great food with a strong local following. Known for its delicious Vietnamese fare, the spot offers everything from a rich beef stew to a refreshing rice vermicelli bowl, and even a solid iced coffee for those who need a midday lift. The menu caters not only to Vietnamese palates but also offers something for the culinary curiosity—a diverse array of flavors for anyone craving a change of taste. Though it’s a bit of a dive type place, with dirty dish bins visible near the back tables, that raw authenticity is part of its charm. Some have noted the owner can be not friendly, but most agree the friendly service overall and the quality of the food outweigh those moments. Our family has loved this place for several years, and the beef stew remains a clear favorite. With ample parking spaces, no fuss, and consistently satisfying meals, we’d still highly recommend you give this place a try—especially during a delightful week exploring Nashville and its local cuisine.
Garden Fresh Food Market
📍Madison Square 
One of the best kept secrets in the surrounding areas, Garden Fresh Food Market in Madison is more than a small grocery store—it’s a go-to for delicious food, unbeatable prices, and authentic Mexican street food that’s worth the trip. Inside this clean, bright, and cute store, you’ll find a hidden kitchen and café serving up some of the best birria tacos in Nashville, along with $2 tamales on Thursday and loaded $5.99 burritos on Friday. The mulitas, street tacos, and made-to-order guacamole with homemade tortilla chips are standout items, while the fried plantains deliver a sweet and savory palate cleanser that feels like a bonus treat. Beyond the food, Garden Fresh impresses with a huge selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, seafood, meat substitutes, and everyday grocery staples, all crazy affordable and well laid out. The hot bar, grill, and rotating specials make it easy to grab a quick lunch or something to-go. With friendly, helpful, and sweet employees, it’s no wonder this spot feels like a true neighborhood gem. Whether you’re stopping in for tacos, grabbing a cold beer, or just restocking your kitchen, Garden Fresh offers so much value, it might just ruin Mexican food anywhere else—nothing else will ever come close.
The Horn
📍Murfreesboro Pike The Horn is a true hidden gem on Murfreesboro Pike, offering some of the most affordable, delicious East African food in Nashville. This great little shop serves up fantastic bites like beef sambusas, chicken sambusas, and the traditional nafaqo—a flavorful Somali dish made with potato and a stuffed hard-boiled egg, made when ordered and served with a sauce on the side. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another bite, the ingredients are always fresh, the food consistently excellent, and the service genuinely exceptional. Don’t leave without trying the Somali Chai—it’s not to be missed, even if you’re usually a coffee person. One gentleman behind the counter insisted we needed to try it, and he was right: it’s smoother, spicier, and simply better than other chais in town. We got one and instantly wanted another for the road. Whether you’re grabbing samosas, a full plate of chicken or beef, or just looking to get a chai at 2 p.m., this place delivers. If you’re exploring new flavors, seeking a real recommendation, or on the hunt for cheap international food in Nashville, do yourself a favor and try out The Horn—you won’t be disappointed. It’s awesome, small, and absolutely a must on any list of local favorites.
Tacos Mariscos Lopez #2
📍Murfreesboro Pike 
Tacos Mariscos Lopez #2 on Murfreesboro Pike serves up amazing food at a super affordable price, the kind that keeps you going back, sometimes even tomorrow. From the very first bite of their authentic tacos, you’re hooked—tacos to start, and the list goes on. The smoked chicken, charcoal cooked chicken, mini tacos, and refried beans are full of flavor and always tasty. It’s a place where real Mexican food takes center stage—simple, fast, and clean, with a kitchen you can actually see, allowing you to watch the cooks work with impressive higher levels of sanitation. It delivers a full experience that stands far above the pricey, trendy restaurants that have sprung up nearby. There’s plenty of choice on the menu, huge portions, and amazing prices—all delivered with great, awesome consistency every time you visit. This spot is a dream for any lover of Mexican food, and once you try it, you’re basically addicted. The food is yummy, the vibe is welcoming, and you truly can’t go wrong with anything on the plate. You won’t find chips and salsa, but with this kind of flavor, you won’t miss them. Many have loved it all, and so did we. Just go, enjoy, and let the food speak for itself. If you’re hunting for cheap authentic Mexican food in Nashville, this is the place. There’s really nothing else to add.
VN Pho & Deli
📍Charlotte Pike 
VN Pho & Deli on Charlotte Pike is a top-tier stop for those craving truly authentic Vietnamese food in Nashville. Reminiscent of spots you’d find in California’s Vietnamese communities, Houston, or NYC, this establishment delivers consistent flavor and value with every visit. From the absolute best Vietnamese Pho in Nashville to comfort dishes like the Spicy Pho Special (around $11.95) or the rich Seafood Fried Noodle, the menu is built for both depth and satisfaction. The classic bowl of Pho with Meatballs hits at a fair $9.95, while sides like the Shrimp Rolls (5pcs) and Avocado Smoothie offer flavor-packed additions without straining your wallet. Every bite is made better with their homemade dipping sauces, a perfect marriage of freshness and balance. Just remember—they do not take credit cards, so be sure to pack a Benjamin if you plan to order more. The service is always excellent, backed by a genuinely friendly wait staff that makes each visit feel like home. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s dined here every time you’re nearby, you’ll quickly understand why this is the go-to Pho restaurant in Nashville. The Avocado Smoothie, rich and creamy, was dubbed a creamy elixir by our 11-year-old dining companion, even if it came 3/4 full—you’ll definitely want more smoothie by the end. Paired with a simple hot tea ($2), it rounds out a warm, deeply satisfying meal. If you’re hunting for cheap and authentic Vietnamese food in Nashville, VN Pho & Deli delivers every single time.
InterAsian Market & Deli
📍Nolensville Pike If you’re serious about authentic Asian cuisine, InterAsian Market & Deli on Nolensville Pike is where you go when you want the real thing—no shortcuts, no watered-down flavors. The deli in the back is the heart of it all. Their Banh Mi sandwiches are crisp, fresh, and layered with the right balance of savory meats, pickled veggies, and sauces. The crab wontons are hot, golden, and packed with flavor—simple, no-fuss bites that overdeliver. Every item feels like it came from someone who understands cooking, not someone just serving food. Whether you’re stopping for a quick lunch or something to take home, this place brings the comfort and punch of true Southeast Asian street food. The market itself is a goldmine for anyone cooking Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, or Laotian dishes at home. You’ll find kaffir lime leaves, shaoxing cooking wine, panang curry paste, fish sauce, fresh ginger, and red chili peppers—all from top brands people trust. InterAsian isn’t big, but it’s smart: half the size of a chain store with twice the items that matter. The produce is fabulously fresh, and the inventory is clearly curated by people who know what good food takes. If you’re cooking Mapo Tofu or dialing in the right heat for a curry, this market gives you the right answer, not substitutions. For anyone hunting down cheap and authentic Asian food in Nashville—whether ready to eat or made at home—this place delivers every time.
Brown’s Diner
📍Blair Blvd, Nashville 
Brown’s Diner is a true Nashville original—a hole-in-the-wall with real grit, local roots, and a serious reputation for serving up one of the city’s great burgers. Whether you’ve just landed in the city or stumbled in from the neighborhood, it’s the kind of place where people become regulars fast. The burgers, topped with grilled onions and fries on the side, are no-nonsense and full of flavor. Add in an $11 pitcher of beer served in frostiest mugs, and you’ve got a meal that hits right every time. It’s not trendy—it’s better. It’s the spot locals tell you about when they say “skip the guide and go where we eat.” The charm is in the details: old-school menus, a laid-back waitress who keeps things moving, and a dining room filled with pictures that tell the story of the place. You won’t find hype, but you will find a bar full of character, awesome food, and free on-site parking—rare in this part of town. Brown’s Diner has earned its place through consistency, history, and flavor. If you’re looking for a meal that’s reasonably priced, made right, and rooted in what Nashville really is, this is it. Highly recommended—you absolutely won’t be disappointed.
Priya Patel
Food & Culture Specialist
A passionate food explorer, Priya has spent 9 years uncovering Nashville’s best-kept culinary secrets. Her anonymous reviews and deep local connections ensure every recommendation is authentic and trustworthy.