20 must-try cheap eats for under $10 in Birmingham

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Ballin’ on a budget? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to see just how far $10 can go for some cheap eats in The Magic City.

1. The Garage

Not only is this a beautiful place to lounge in the courtyard, but you can build your own sandwich for $8.25, including chips and a dill pickle spear!

2. T-Bones Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks

This Southside staple is one of the best ways you could spend your lunch break. Their T-Bone Steak 12” sandwiches come stacked with steak, onions, green peppers, mushrooms and white American cheese, all toasted to perfection for only $9.25.

3. The Purple Onion

Night owls, this ones for you. Open 24 hours, Purple Onion is the king of cheap eats. All of their burgers are under $6 and most of their combo plates come in at $9.25. With a vast menu of late-night favorites, you can’t beat it.

4. Yo Mama’s

Who doesn’t love some good ol’ fried chicken? Yo Mama’s offers their delicious fried chicken plate with fries, slaw, and bread for just $9.95.

5. Gordos

Step aside, Taco Bell. Gordos is the place for $2 tacos in Bham. Full of authentic flavor and easy on the wallet, you’ll definitely be going back for seconds.

6. Taj India

All-you-can-eat buffet for $9.99. Need I say more? Taj India offers an incredible selection of authentic Indian eats. You can even take the deliciousness to-go.

7. SAW’s Soul Kitchen

They don’t put “soul” in their name for nothing. Their Original Pulled Pork Sandwich can be on your plate for just $8.

8. Los Amigos

When it comes to cheap eats here, you’ve got options. Their lunch menu has over 15 options for under $10, including a combo with two beef enchiladas, a beef taco and a tamale for $8.75.

9. Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint

Mac n’ cheese and Martin’s BBQ potato chips are a match made in burger topping heaven. The Greg Brady (a.k.a the best burger I’ve ever had) comes with all the above for only $8.99.

10. Pop’s Neighborhood Grill

Rise and shine, Bham. Your dollar can go a long way at Pop’s, there’s nothing on their breakfast menu over $10! Locals rave about their bacon, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich that comes in at $4.29.

11. Farm Bowl + Juice Co.

For those days where you wake up feelin’ healthy, Farm Bowl + Juice Co. has amazing acai bowls. Their ✨Sparkle✨ bowl is only $9 and it’s loaded with goodness: original acai blend, pineapple, pear, banana, papaya, chia seeds and local honey.

12. Magic City Grill

This laid-back Southern food joint is tried and true by Bham locals. Dig in to 10 chicken drummettes with celery, ranch and fries for only $7.95.

13. Bluff Park Diner

In Alabama, mac n’ cheese and hushpuppies are totally considered veggies. Go ahead and grab a meat and two veggies plate for just $9.29.

14. Baha Burger

Who woulda thought you could get a gourmet burger without the gourmet price tag?  Snag a full-size Bacon Swiss burger with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, swiss cheese, mayo and of course, bacon for $7.79.

15. Green Acres Cafe

You’ll def get bang for your buck here— all of their plates and sammys are under $10. Feelin’ special? Grab a five-piece combo with wings, fries and glorious fried green tomatoes for $8.40.

16. Jasmine’s Cafe

Fried anything is bound to be good. But chicken fried steak is a step above the rest, IMO. A plate full of country-fried goodness and 2 sides of your choice is all yours for $7.75.

17. Over Easy

Does the name Hash Basket make you hungry already? We’re talkin’ hash browns topped with 2 eggs over easy, cheese, herbs, creme fraiche, diced tomatoes, your choice of meat and toast or a biscuit for $10. 

18. China Way

Look no further for your favorite Chinese classics on the cheap. China Way has unbeatable specials, you can get all your faves like Kung Pao Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice for only $5.85 at lunch.

19. Unos Tacos

Let’s taco ’bout these unmissable prices. Grilled steak, chicken, and chorizo tacos are only $3 each. Quesadillas and tostadas also come in below $10 each, so there’s totally a bite for your budget.

20. Wings Plus #3

#3 on the sign, #1 in our hearts. Wings Plus has a little something for everybody and you won’t break the bank for it. You’re not gonna wanna miss this deal: 10 wings, 2 sauces, fries and a 20oz drink for only $8.99.

Got some extra lunch money? Check out 20 of the best cheap eats in Bham under $20

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