HungerStrikes

Budget Eats

Best Budget Eats in Metro Vancouver

Peaked Pies

Peaked Pies is a very cool, Australian cafe where you can get good coffee and do work for a few hours or get a cheap, delicious, filling meal. They offer a wide variety of Australian meat pies, ranging from traditional to Asian fusion. They even have some delicious vegetarian options for those who don’t eat meat. You can have the pie by itself, or add the “peaked” option which gives you a generous side of mashed potatoes, mushy peas, and gravy. The coffee shop-like atmosphere is a cozy place to meet up with friends and the staff are friendly and educated on the menu.

  • Average Price: $10-$20 per person
  • Overall Rating: 4/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  • Service: ★★★★☆
  • Website: Peaked Pies
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

Sal y Limón

A cheap but delicious Mexican spot. They have three locations in Vancouver, but the Kingsway location is the one to visit. You get a great bang for your buck with their burritos and my favourite is the Barbacoa de Cordero. I think anything on their menu looks like it would be more than worth the money. Also, their Horchata (a rice milk drink mixed with tiger nuts on ice) is a deliciously sweet addition to your meal. The atmosphere is fun, like your typical “hole-in-the-wall” restaurant, but takeout may be the way to go. It should be noted, also, their food travels well so you can enjoy your meal at home.

  • Average Price: $10-$20 per person
  • Overall Rating: 3.5/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★☆☆
  • Service: ★★★☆☆
  • Website: Sal y Limón
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

The Templeton

The Templeton is a retro diner that brings a nostalgic feel to downtown Vancouver. Its cozy booths, jukebox tunes, and neon-lit decor make it an excellent spot for a casual meal. The menu is full of comforting diner classics, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their all-day breakfast is a standout—especially the West Coast Toast, which comes with smoked salmon and cream cheese, and the poutine, one of the city’s best. Service is friendly but can be slower when it’s busy, so don’t come in a rush. If you’re looking for a laid-back, old-school diner experience with solid food, The Templeton won’t disappoint.

  • Average Price: $10-$20
  • Overall Rating: 4/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★★
  • Service: ★★★☆☆
  • Website: The Templeton
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

Hawkers Delight Deli

Hawker’s Delight Deli is an affordable delivery or cash-only spot serving some of Vancouver’s most authentic Malaysian and Singaporean food. The portions are generous, the flavours are bold, and the prices are hard to beat. Their Nasi Goreng and Mee Goreng are must-tries—perfectly spiced, with an outstanding balance of sweet, salty, and savoury flavours. The curry puffs are also a fan favourite; they are crispy on the outside and packed with a flavorful filling. It’s a small, casual spot with limited seating, so be prepared to wait or take your food to go. This is the place if you’re after a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal.

  • Average Price: $10-$20
  • Overall Rating: 3/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★☆☆
  • Service: ★★★☆☆
  • Website: Hawkers Delight Diner
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

Kamura Sushi 

Kamura Sushi is a small restaurant across from Oakridge Mall. They currently only take cash and do takeout, but that’s not a big loss, since the location and atmosphere weren’t anything to write home about. What Kamura lacks in service and atmosphere, however, they make up with insanely large portions at a very affordable price. Not the best sushi in town, but the quality and quantity you get at a low price makes you forget the rest. For an even lower cost, if you preorder by call a day ahead you get 10% off. 

  • Average Price: $10-$20
  • Overall Rating: 3.5/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★☆☆
  • Service: ★★★★☆
  • Website: Kamura Sushi
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

Jo’s Italian Deli

Jo’s Italian Deli is a casual Italian restaurant located at the Broadway and Alma intersection. They serve various pasta and sandwiches, providing an authentic Italian taste without breaking the bank. Between their creamy Chicken Alfredo, Rosé Radiatori, and Italian Cold Cult, Jo’s has something for everyone. The restaurant itself is also very cozy, with quality service and atmosphere. 

  • Average Price: $10-$20
  • Overall Rating: 3.5/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
  • Service: ★★★☆☆
  • Website: Jo’s Italian Deli
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025

Jam Cafe

Jam Cafe in Vancouver offers a delightful brunch experience with generous portions and a cozy atmosphere. The extensive menu features well-cooked, flavorful dishes that make the often long wait worthwhile. Service is attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience. Be prepared for a queue, especially on weekends, but rest assured, the delicious food and friendly staff make it worth the wait.

  • Average Price: $10-$20
  • Overall Rating: 4/5
  • Food: ★★★★☆
  • Atmosphere: ★★★☆☆
  • Service: ★★★★☆
  • Website: Jam Cafe
  • Location: View on Interactive Map
  • Updated on Feb 21, 2025
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