$ Budget Friendly

Cheap Eats in Washington DC

Ethiopian food, mumbo sauce, and international flavors. Budget eating in the nation's capital.

Find Cheap Eats Near You

DC is expensive, but the city's diverse neighborhoods hide incredible cheap eats. From the largest Ethiopian community outside Africa to Salvadoran pupuserias, the nation's capital offers world-class food on a budget.

Ethiopian (U Street & Beyond)

DC has the largest Ethiopian population in the US. The food is incredible, communal, and affordable.

Dukem

$$ • $14-22
U Street

Long-running Ethiopian spot with live music. Share a combo platter.

Zenebech

$ • $12-18
Shaw

Beloved for breakfast tibs and kitfo. No frills, excellent food.

Keren

$$ • $14-20
U Street

Eritrean and Ethiopian food. Great vegetarian options.

DC Classics

Ben's Chili Bowl

$ • $8-14
U Street

DC institution since 1958. Half-smokes with chili and mumbo sauce. Obama ate here.

Oohhs & Aahhs

$$ • $12-18
U Street

Soul food that lives up to its name. The mac and cheese is legendary.

Jumbo Slice

$ • $5-8
Adams Morgan

Giant pizza slices at 3am. A DC late-night institution.

International Gems

El Pollo Rico

$ • $10-16
Arlington (worth the trip)

Peruvian rotisserie chicken. The green sauce is addictive. Cash only.

Pho 75

$ • $10-14
Arlington/Falls Church

Legendary pho in the Virginia suburbs. Big bowls, low prices.

Las Placitas

$ • $4-8 per pupusa
Columbia Heights

Salvadoran pupusas that are cheap and delicious.

Arepa Zone

$ • $8-14
Various locations

Venezuelan arepas from a food truck. Cheap, filling, flavorful.

More Budget Gems

Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken

$ • $8-14
Multiple locations

Great fried chicken sandwiches. The doughnuts are bonus.

G by Mike Isabella

$$ • $10-16
Capitol Hill

Greek souvlaki in the Eastern Market area. Fast, cheap, delicious.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cheap eats options in Washington, DC?

Washington, DC has a growing number of restaurants and bars worth checking out. Use ChooseMy.Food to instantly discover cheap eats spots near you in Washington, DC — set your filters and spin the wheel to find your next stop.

How do I find cheap eats near me in Washington, DC?

Enter your Washington, DC address or use GPS detection on ChooseMy.Food, set your radius and price range, then spin the wheel to randomly discover a great option nearby.

Is cheap eats in Washington, DC good for groups?

Yes — Washington, DC has options across every neighborhood and price point, making it easy to find something that works whether you're going solo, on a date, or with a group.