Boston on a Budget: Best Eats for $10
The perfect places to indulge without breaking the bank.
by Annika Gupta
Boston boasts an endless array of incredible restaurants, but finding ones that fit a college student’s budget can be a challenge. This guide outlines the best spots near campus that offer great food at an even greater price.
Tasty Burger is a local favorite for students, offering affordable yet delicious meals. With two convenient locations, it's the perfect spot to grab a quick bite with friends. Starting at $6.75, their juicy, flavor-packed burgers are a steal. For something different, try the Rise ‘n Shine, featuring a fried egg, crispy bacon, and a kick of spicy ketchup, or dive into the cheesy, chili-smothered goodness of the Hubba. Both are just $8.75, making it easy to enjoy a filling meal for under $10. Tasty Burger is a go-to for comfort food and great company.
To experience the flavors of Indian street food, try Wow! Tikka. This restaurant stands out as a gem in Boston, with almost all items under $10. The Chicken Naan Kati Roll, priced at $7.99, is a savory delight with tender, spicy chicken, onions, and fresh cilantro mint sauce, all wrapped in a soft naan. For those searching for their next protein fix, the Tandoori Chicken and Chicken Tikka are also below $10 standouts, spiced and barbecued to perfection. If you’re craving vibrant, affordable Indian food, Wow! Tikka has you covered.
Japonaise Bakery in Brookline offers a delightful fusion of French pastries with a Japanese twist, all at an affordable price. Savory favorites like the Onigiri, Tuna Roll (a soft tuna-filled bun), and Smoked Chibi (their spin on pigs in a blanket), and sweet treats like the Cream Man Pan, Morning Bun, and Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnut, are sure to impress—all $4 or less. For something extra special, don’t miss the Matcha Azuki Cream Croissant and Totoro-inspired buns. If you’re in the mood for a coffee and a pastry during a study break, this is the perfect spot to indulge.
Pho Viets, located on campus, offers some of the best, most budget-friendly Banh Mi you’ll find in Boston. Their generous portion sizes will leave you feeling more than satisfied. Try the pork banh mi where sweet, tender pork, pickled carrots and daikon, and cilantro meet a crunchy, warm baguette. Their scallion pancakes, pork and vegetable dumplings, and shredded pork skin roll are also must-try hidden gems on their menu under $10, perfect for sharing. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between classes or enjoying a casual dinner, Pho Viets is the go-to spot for bold flavors and great value.
Anoush’ella is an Armenian-Lebanese restaurant serving flavor-packed wraps, bowls, and salads at an unbeatable price. One standout is their Couscous and Braised Beef, a bowl full of juicy, slow-cooked beef that lays on a bed of thick, fluffy couscous and smothered in rich, flavorful sauces, all for just $7.45. For something equally delicious, try the Anoush’ella Kofta wrap, filled with hummus, onions, lamb, beef, and a mouthwatering blend of sauces. Anoush’ella is a must-try spot for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to enjoy incredible food in Boston on a budget. Check out these affordable spots for your next meal, they are guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and wallet.
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