Introduction
Visiting Hollywood conjures images of red carpets, movie premieres, and maybe a star-studded encounter. The reality? It’s a bustling city with all the complexities and expenses that entails. One of the biggest hits to your budget, especially if you’re a tourist or a local trying to save some cash, is eating out. Hollywood, with its glittering attractions, often gives the impression that every meal requires a hefty price tag. But what if I told you there’s a vibrant, delicious, and surprisingly affordable culinary scene hiding in plain sight?
Finding affordable food amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The abundance of upscale restaurants and trendy cafes often overshadows the hidden gems offering delicious and budget-friendly options. This article aims to be your compass, your insider guide to the best cheap eats in Hollywood, proving that you can enjoy fantastic flavors without emptying your wallet. We’ll define “cheap food” for our purposes as meals generally costing less than twenty dollars – a reasonable benchmark for a filling and satisfying meal in this area.
Get ready to discover a world of culinary delights that won’t break the bank, from authentic ethnic eats to innovative takes on classic comfort food. This is your roadmap to affordable deliciousness in the heart of Hollywood.
Types of Cheap Food in Hollywood
Hollywood’s diverse culinary landscape offers a range of affordable options. Let’s break down some of the most reliable categories for finding cheap eats:
Ethnic Food/International Cuisine: A World of Flavor on a Budget
One of the best strategies for scoring affordable meals in Hollywood is to explore its incredible ethnic food scene. Often family-run and focusing on authentic flavors, these restaurants offer incredible value for your money.
Mexican cuisine is a staple for budget-conscious diners. Seek out taco trucks and smaller, less flashy restaurants, where you can find incredible tacos, burritos, and tortas for just a few dollars. Think flavorful carne asada, savory al pastor, and fresh, vibrant salsas, all wrapped in warm tortillas. These aren’t just cheap eats; they’re authentic cultural experiences.
Thai food is another excellent option. Noodle shops and smaller Thai restaurants abound in certain areas of Hollywood, offering fragrant curries, flavorful noodle dishes, and aromatic soups that will tantalize your taste buds without emptying your wallet. Look for dishes like Pad Thai, with its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, or a creamy green curry packed with vegetables and your choice of protein. A steaming bowl of Tom Yum soup is another great option.
Middle Eastern cuisine is also well-represented and offers an array of affordable and satisfying meals. Falafel, shawarma, and hummus plates are readily available and packed with flavor. The fragrant spices, fresh herbs, and satisfying textures make these dishes a perfect choice for a quick and affordable lunch or dinner.
Don’t limit yourself to just these cuisines. Hollywood’s diverse population means you can find affordable options from Korean, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, and many other culinary traditions. Venture off the main tourist drags and explore the side streets; you might be surprised at the culinary treasures you discover.
Fast Food (But Elevated): Beyond the Usual Chains
While national fast-food chains are certainly budget-friendly, Hollywood also boasts a number of local spots that offer a more elevated, yet still affordable, take on fast-food classics.
Gourmet burger joints are a popular choice. These aren’t your average greasy burgers; they feature high-quality ingredients, creative toppings, and perfectly cooked patties, all at a price point that’s surprisingly reasonable. Look for places that emphasize locally sourced ingredients or offer unique burger combinations.
Artisan pizza is another excellent option. Instead of ordering a whole pie from a big chain, seek out smaller pizzerias that sell pizza by the slice. You’ll get to sample a variety of flavors and enjoy a slice of delicious, handcrafted pizza without breaking the bank.
Sandwich shops, the ones that go beyond basic lunchmeat, can offer creative and well-made sandwiches. These shops often use fresh ingredients, unique sauces, and artisanal breads to create sandwiches that are both satisfying and affordable. A carefully crafted sandwich is a great option for a quick and delicious meal on the go.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: The Best Kept Secrets
The true gems of Hollywood’s affordable food scene are often the hidden, local favorites that haven’t yet been discovered by the masses.
Mom-and-pop restaurants, small, family-owned eateries, offer a glimpse into the heart of Hollywood’s culinary culture. These restaurants often serve up home-style cooking at incredibly reasonable prices. Look for places that have been around for years, a sign of consistent quality and a loyal following.
Many restaurants offer affordable lunch specials, allowing you to sample their cuisine at a discounted price. Check online menus or call ahead to see what lunch specials are available. This is a great way to try a new restaurant without committing to a full-priced dinner.
Don’t forget happy hour deals. Many bars and restaurants offer discounted food and drinks during happy hour, making it a perfect time to sample their menu without spending too much money. Happy hour is not only a great deal but also a great way to enjoy the ambience and social scene.
Farmers Markets: Fresh, Affordable, and Local
Hollywood has several farmers markets that are perfect for stocking up on fresh, affordable produce. You can find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisanal breads and cheeses.
Farmers markets aren’t just for groceries, though. Many vendors also sell ready-to-eat meals, often at lower prices than you’d find in a restaurant. This is a great way to support local farmers and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.
Restaurant Recommendations: Your Guide to Affordable Eats
Here are a few specific restaurant recommendations to get you started on your culinary adventure:
Taco Spot El Sinaloa: Located on Melrose Avenue, El Sinaloa is a favorite for its authentic, flavorful tacos. Carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas are all excellent choices, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Most tacos are under four dollars. It’s a small, unassuming place, but the food speaks for itself.
Crispy Bird: Tucked away on Vine Street, Crispy Bird specializes in delicious and affordable fried chicken sandwiches. Their crispy, juicy chicken is topped with creative sauces and served on toasted buns. Sandwiches range from eight to twelve dollars. They also offer sides like waffle fries and coleslaw, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Mama’s Lu Dumpling House: Located in Monterey Park (a short drive from Hollywood), Mama’s Lu Dumpling House is known for their incredible soup dumplings and pan-fried dumplings. The portions are generous, the prices are low, and the dumplings are bursting with flavor. A meal here will cost you around fifteen dollars.
Spitz Mediterranean Street Food: With a few locations around Los Angeles, including one on Hollywood Boulevard, Spitz offers delicious and affordable Mediterranean street food. Their wraps, salads, and bowls are packed with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. A meal here typically costs around twelve dollars. They offer great vegan and vegetarian options, too.
California Chicken Cafe: This local chain is known for its delicious and affordable rotisserie chicken. You can order a whole chicken, a half chicken, or a quarter chicken with your choice of sides. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. A meal here will cost you around ten dollars.
Veggie Grill: While technically a chain, Veggie Grill offers a wide variety of delicious and affordable vegan burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Their ingredients are high quality, and their meals are satisfying and filling. Most items are under fifteen dollars.
Tips for Saving Money on Food in Hollywood
Beyond specific restaurant recommendations, here are some general tips for saving money on food in Hollywood:
Look for Lunch Specials: As mentioned earlier, many restaurants offer discounted lunch specials. Take advantage of these deals to try new restaurants and save money.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Happy hour is a great way to enjoy discounted food and drinks. Look for bars and restaurants that offer happy hour deals, often between three and six in the afternoon.
Explore Food Trucks: Hollywood has a thriving food truck scene. Food trucks often offer delicious and affordable options, and they’re a great way to try a variety of different cuisines.
Share Dishes: If portions are large, consider sharing a meal with a friend. This is a great way to save money and try more dishes.
Bring Your Own Snacks/Drinks: Pack snacks and drinks to avoid impulse purchases, especially when you’re out and about exploring Hollywood.
Use Discount Apps/Websites: Several apps and websites offer deals on restaurants in Hollywood. Check out sites like Groupon, Yelp, and Restaurant.com to see what deals are available.
Shop at Farmers Markets: Farmers markets are a great place to find fresh, affordable produce. Stock up on fruits and vegetables at the farmers market and cook your own meals at home to save money.
Conclusion
Hollywood might be synonymous with glamour and extravagance, but it doesn’t have to be expensive, especially when it comes to food. By exploring the diverse culinary landscape, seeking out hidden gems, and taking advantage of money-saving tips, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals without breaking the bank.
From authentic ethnic eats to innovative takes on classic comfort food, Hollywood offers a wealth of affordable culinary experiences. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore the side streets; you might be surprised at the culinary treasures you discover.
So, next time you’re in Hollywood, remember that you don’t have to spend a fortune to eat well. Embrace the city’s diverse culinary scene, explore the hidden gems, and discover your own favorite cheap eats. And most importantly, enjoy the delicious flavors of Hollywood without emptying your wallet. You’ll save money, experience diverse cultures through their cuisine, and perhaps even discover your new favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Now, go forth and eat affordably in Hollywood!
