Eat On The Cheap: Our Favorite Budget Bites
Coke vs. Pepsi, Thor vs. Loki, Borg vs. McEnroe, and your inner foodie vs. your pocketbook; these are rivalries that will stand the test of time. Just as Borg and McEnroe’s epic tennis feud ended in a life-long friendship, there’s a way to satisfy your cravings for great food and money in the bank. Check out our favorite places to go for cheap eats in Reno.
Even if Tacos ElReywasn’t cheap, it would still be a go-to spot for phenomenal tacos. The fact that the tacos are $1.39 each is the icing on the cake, or more appropriately hot sauce on your taco! They have 3 locations throughout Reno, so you’re never too far from some great Mexican cooking. If tacos aren’t your thing, there’s plenty of options on their Guadalajara inspired menu. The combo meals starting at $6.99 are an excellent place to begin.
This retro burger shop is a Reno staple. The fries come heaped on a silver cafeteria tray, and opening your mouth wide enough to fit around one of their burgers is a true feat. Digesting a meal here takes a full afternoon. Getting this artery-clogging goodness for less than $10 a meal is a real steal. The food might be rich, but this burger joint doesn’t skimp on quality. They use the best ingredients around, including beef from Ponderosa Butcher Shop. Their milkshakes are thick and delicious, and they have an incredible selection of craft beers!
The pupusa is the unsung hero of Central American food. Fluffy corn pockets stuffed with melty cheese and flavorful meats. To enjoy one of these palm-sized stuffed masa treats head to Restaurante Yesenia on Moana, where you can enjoy them starting at $2 apiece. The menu features both Mexican and El Salvadorian favorites. Don’t miss out on the fried plantains.
Mouthwatering shawarma awaits at this heavy-metal-inspired hole in the wall. Lamb and chicken are slowly roasted, upright on rotisseries (vegetarians will go nuts for the falafel) then wrapped in Lafah, a Middle Eastern flatbread. A wrap will run you between $9 and $11 depending on the type of meat you get. Crunchy chickpeas and Za’atar popcorn make for addicting sides at $3 each.
At $8.99, the lunch buffet at Indian Kabab & Curry is one of the best deals in town. Unlike many run-of-the-mill Indian buffets, India Kabab and Curry is committed to using the freshest ingredients. In addition to better tasting food, it also means the menu changes daily. While there’s always something new to try, you can count on there being flavorful chutneys, tasty curries and warm naan to soak up all the goodness.