Passionate foodies know that just because a restaurant is pricy doesn't mean it's good — and vice versa.
An expensive meal may get you great ambiance or the chance to taste the work of a famous chef, but there’s no guarantee your extra dough will get you a better meal. Not to mention, with inflation putting the pressure on pocketbooks, it can feel even more satisfying to score a delicious plate of food that doesn’t break the bank.
If you're looking for delicious dining at a reasonable price, these 25 San Antonio eateries offer great meals for $15 or less.
The 25 best San Antonio restaurants when you have $15 or less
By San Antonio Current Staff on Fri, Oct 14, 2022 at 2:06 pm
Tags:
- San Antonio,
- Texas,
- cheap food,
- good food for cheap,
- cheap restaurants,
- meals under $15,
- cheap eats,
- cheap meals,
- $15 or less,
- Barbecue Station,
- Station Cafe,
- Dignowity Meats,
- Gino's Deli,
- Stop & Buy,
- Taquitos West Avenue,
- Ray's Drive Inn,
- Mark's Outing,
- Bigz Burger Joint,
- El Bucanero,
- Good Time Charlie's,
- Costa Pacifica,
- Demo's Greek Food,
- Schilo's Delicatessen,
- Carnitas Lonja,
- Wrigleyville Grill,
- Chris Madrid's,
- L&L Hawaiian Grill,
- Chicago Bagel & Deli,
- Sweet Yams,
- Main Street Pizza,
- Pho Hung Cuong,
- Lala's Gorditas,
- Capo's Pizza,
- W.D. Deli,
- Singhs Vietnamese
Scroll down to view images
Singh’s Vietnamese
2803 N St Mary's St., (512) 940-9662, toasttab.com/singhs/v3
Since everything on the menu is less than $15, you can mix it up as you wish. Keep things fresh by trying out the different meat and veg options for Singhs’ goi, rice, bún and banh mi sandwiches — all under $14 — or try out the restaurant’s signature winghs for $12.
Photo by mimi.ortizz via Instagram / singhs_sa
2803 N St Mary's St., (512) 940-9662, toasttab.com/singhs/v3
Since everything on the menu is less than $15, you can mix it up as you wish. Keep things fresh by trying out the different meat and veg options for Singhs’ goi, rice, bún and banh mi sandwiches — all under $14 — or try out the restaurant’s signature winghs for $12.
Photo by mimi.ortizz via Instagram / singhs_sa
W.D. Deli
3123 Broadway, (210) 828-2322, wddeli.com
All of W.D. Deli’s sandwiches cost under $15, with classic sandwich options ringing up under $10 and their signature options only a couple of bucks more. After an ownership change in March 2022, the restaurant expanded their hours to include Saturdays, giving hungry San Antonians more opportunity to stop in for an affordable bite.
Photo via Instagram / wddeli
3123 Broadway, (210) 828-2322, wddeli.com
All of W.D. Deli’s sandwiches cost under $15, with classic sandwich options ringing up under $10 and their signature options only a couple of bucks more. After an ownership change in March 2022, the restaurant expanded their hours to include Saturdays, giving hungry San Antonians more opportunity to stop in for an affordable bite.
Photo via Instagram / wddeli
Taquitos West Avenue
2818 West Ave., (210) 525-9888, facebook.com/TaquitosWestAvenue1
Snag a plate full of Suadero mini-tacos packed with grilled meat, onion and cilantro for $1.50 each. The formula may sound simple, but there’s a reason this spot was voted the Best Tacos in SA by Current readers from 2019-2021.
Photo via Instagram / compa_chon_el_coreano
2818 West Ave., (210) 525-9888, facebook.com/TaquitosWestAvenue1
Snag a plate full of Suadero mini-tacos packed with grilled meat, onion and cilantro for $1.50 each. The formula may sound simple, but there’s a reason this spot was voted the Best Tacos in SA by Current readers from 2019-2021.
Photo via Instagram / compa_chon_el_coreano
Ray’s Drive Inn
822 SW 19th St., (210) 432-7171, raysdriveinn.net
Pay your respects to the home of the San Antonio puffy taco. Visit Ray’s to load up on the puffys — all under $4.25 a pop — or the Special Chicken Fajitas with beans and rice for just $10.50.
Photo via Instagram / raysdriveinn
822 SW 19th St., (210) 432-7171, raysdriveinn.net
Pay your respects to the home of the San Antonio puffy taco. Visit Ray’s to load up on the puffys — all under $4.25 a pop — or the Special Chicken Fajitas with beans and rice for just $10.50.
Photo via Instagram / raysdriveinn
Dignowity Meats
1701 E. Houston St., (210) 462-1496, dignowitymeats.com
Whether you’re stopping by for one of their smoked meat sandwiches (all $12 and under) or taking advantage of their by-the-pound pricing – the brisket burnt ends ($5.50 for 1/4 pound), buttermilk fried chicken quarters ($4), pulled pork ($4.50 for 1/4 pound) or St. Louis ribs for $2.50 each — you’ll also have extra bills to make your meal complete with a side or two!
Photo via Instagram / dignowitymeats
1701 E. Houston St., (210) 462-1496, dignowitymeats.com
Whether you’re stopping by for one of their smoked meat sandwiches (all $12 and under) or taking advantage of their by-the-pound pricing – the brisket burnt ends ($5.50 for 1/4 pound), buttermilk fried chicken quarters ($4), pulled pork ($4.50 for 1/4 pound) or St. Louis ribs for $2.50 each — you’ll also have extra bills to make your meal complete with a side or two!
Photo via Instagram / dignowitymeats
Sweet Yams
218 N Cherry St., (210) 229-9267, sweetyamsonlineordering.square.site
Eating healthy isn’t always the most wallet-friendly, but Sweet Yams is the exception. You can grab a bowl of their vegan chili for just $8, or snag any of their Gluten Free sandwich options for $10. If you’re looking for something more substantial, try one of their hot entrees like the sesame ginger chicken breast, both served over a bed of organic brown rice and with a house salad — and available for under $13.
Photo via Instagram / sweetyamsorganic
218 N Cherry St., (210) 229-9267, sweetyamsonlineordering.square.site
Eating healthy isn’t always the most wallet-friendly, but Sweet Yams is the exception. You can grab a bowl of their vegan chili for just $8, or snag any of their Gluten Free sandwich options for $10. If you’re looking for something more substantial, try one of their hot entrees like the sesame ginger chicken breast, both served over a bed of organic brown rice and with a house salad — and available for under $13.
Photo via Instagram / sweetyamsorganic
Demo's Greek Food
Multiple Locations, demosgreekfood.com
This long-running spot started on the St. Mary’s Strip and serves up stick-to-your ribs pita sandwiches filled with anything from gyro meat to falafel. Their Peasant Plate includes one portion of protein with greek salad and tzatziki and starts around $11.49. They also have daily lunch specials that all are under $13.99, making it a great option for the days you aim to lunch on a budget.
Photo via Instagram / demosgreekfood
Multiple Locations, demosgreekfood.com
This long-running spot started on the St. Mary’s Strip and serves up stick-to-your ribs pita sandwiches filled with anything from gyro meat to falafel. Their Peasant Plate includes one portion of protein with greek salad and tzatziki and starts around $11.49. They also have daily lunch specials that all are under $13.99, making it a great option for the days you aim to lunch on a budget.
Photo via Instagram / demosgreekfood
Lala’s Gorditas
1600 Roosevelt Ave, (210) 465-7157, lalasgorditas.com
Found close to Mission Concepción, this super colorful spot comes from the family who opened the original Teka Molino and the Taco Hut. They offer their namesake gorditas for $4.95-$5.95 apiece and bean cups for under $3.
Photo via Instagram / lalasgorditas
1600 Roosevelt Ave, (210) 465-7157, lalasgorditas.com
Found close to Mission Concepción, this super colorful spot comes from the family who opened the original Teka Molino and the Taco Hut. They offer their namesake gorditas for $4.95-$5.95 apiece and bean cups for under $3.
Photo via Instagram / lalasgorditas
Mark's Outing
1624 E. Commerce St., (210) 299-8110, marksouting.com
Most of the burgers at this Eastside staple are under $15, with options ranging from a classic cheeseburger to their deep-fried ice cream burger and everything in between.
Photo via Instagram / marksouting
1624 E. Commerce St., (210) 299-8110, marksouting.com
Most of the burgers at this Eastside staple are under $15, with options ranging from a classic cheeseburger to their deep-fried ice cream burger and everything in between.
Photo via Instagram / marksouting
L & L Hawaiian Grill
1302 Austin Hwy #1, (210) 474-6699, llhawaiianbbqsa.com
With almost everything on the menu ringing up around $15 or less, you’re really able to explore your options. Splurge on their BBQ beef ribs for $14.99 or opt for adventure with their $5.50 spam ramen.
Photo via Instagram / llhawaiianbbqsa
1302 Austin Hwy #1, (210) 474-6699, llhawaiianbbqsa.com
With almost everything on the menu ringing up around $15 or less, you’re really able to explore your options. Splurge on their BBQ beef ribs for $14.99 or opt for adventure with their $5.50 spam ramen.
Photo via Instagram / llhawaiianbbqsa
Carnitas Lonja
1107 Roosevelt Ave., (210) 455-2105, carnitaslonja.com
For just $13.75, you can score a half-pound of carnitas (or a torta) and if you splurge just a bit, get a side of frijoles for another $4.25. Now it’s up to you whether you want to share or have a feast all your own.
Photo via Instagram / carnitas_lonja
1107 Roosevelt Ave., (210) 455-2105, carnitaslonja.com
For just $13.75, you can score a half-pound of carnitas (or a torta) and if you splurge just a bit, get a side of frijoles for another $4.25. Now it’s up to you whether you want to share or have a feast all your own.
Photo via Instagram / carnitas_lonja
Wrigleyville Grill
602 Northwest Loop 410 #146, (210) 369-9833, wrigleyvillegrill.com
Whether you want just the main attraction or the combo, almost anything you order will come out to less than $15. This includes the kraut dog and pizza puff combos or the Italian chopped salad.
Photo via Instagram / greg_btfd
602 Northwest Loop 410 #146, (210) 369-9833, wrigleyvillegrill.com
Whether you want just the main attraction or the combo, almost anything you order will come out to less than $15. This includes the kraut dog and pizza puff combos or the Italian chopped salad.
Photo via Instagram / greg_btfd
Good Time Charlie's
2922 Broadway, (210) 828-5392, gtcsatx.com
Down-home staple Charlie’s continues to draw downtown lunch crowds with its quick service, big portions and affordable prices. Virtually every one of its burgers, sandwiches and meal-sized salads comes in under $10. If you’re really hungry, upgrade to a hearty portion of chicken fried steak for $14.50.
Photo via Instagram / mavillarreal
2922 Broadway, (210) 828-5392, gtcsatx.com
Down-home staple Charlie’s continues to draw downtown lunch crowds with its quick service, big portions and affordable prices. Virtually every one of its burgers, sandwiches and meal-sized salads comes in under $10. If you’re really hungry, upgrade to a hearty portion of chicken fried steak for $14.50.
Photo via Instagram / mavillarreal
The Barbecue Station
1610 NE Interstate 410 Loop, (210) 824-9191, barbecuestation.com
The next time you find yourself with a craving for some smoked meats and classic southern-style sides, head over to Barbecue Station for plates that don’t skimp — even if you do. For the extra frugal, they even offer two Wallet Watcher’s Specials: a $10.99 brisket option that includes a drink, a side of pinto beans and one additional side, and an $8.99 option, which offers a choice between chopped beef, chopped chicken, turkey or pork loin plus a drink and sides.
Photo via Instagram / paullee2112
1610 NE Interstate 410 Loop, (210) 824-9191, barbecuestation.com
The next time you find yourself with a craving for some smoked meats and classic southern-style sides, head over to Barbecue Station for plates that don’t skimp — even if you do. For the extra frugal, they even offer two Wallet Watcher’s Specials: a $10.99 brisket option that includes a drink, a side of pinto beans and one additional side, and an $8.99 option, which offers a choice between chopped beef, chopped chicken, turkey or pork loin plus a drink and sides.
Photo via Instagram / paullee2112
Chris Madrid’s
1900 Blanco Rd., (210) 735-3552, chrismadrids.com
Snag one of Chris Madrid’s signature tostada burgers — you can even get it macho-style — for just $11.75. If you’re feeling brave, you can try the Flaming Jalapeño Cheddar Cheesy burger regular-style for $10.25.
Photo via Instagram / subblah13
1900 Blanco Rd., (210) 735-3552, chrismadrids.com
Snag one of Chris Madrid’s signature tostada burgers — you can even get it macho-style — for just $11.75. If you’re feeling brave, you can try the Flaming Jalapeño Cheddar Cheesy burger regular-style for $10.25.
Photo via Instagram / subblah13
Capos Pizza
8522 Broadway St. #105, (210) 362-1901, capospizzasa.com
Get ready to feast, because you can order any one of Capos’ hot subs for around $12, or a giant slice of pizza for $3-5. That’ll leave you plenty of extra cash to grab a drink and dessert.
Photo via Instagram / officialcapospizza
8522 Broadway St. #105, (210) 362-1901, capospizzasa.com
Get ready to feast, because you can order any one of Capos’ hot subs for around $12, or a giant slice of pizza for $3-5. That’ll leave you plenty of extra cash to grab a drink and dessert.
Photo via Instagram / officialcapospizza
Gino's Deli @ Stop & Buy
13210 Huebner Rd., (210) 764-0602, myginosdeli.com
Whether you opt for the shop’s signature Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches or a burger, you really can’t go wrong with San Antonio’s not-too-hidden gem Gino’s Deli. You can get any of their delicious offerings for under $15. Plus, you can make your meal a combo — with chips and a drink — for only $2.49 more.
Photo via Instagram / ginosdeli
13210 Huebner Rd., (210) 764-0602, myginosdeli.com
Whether you opt for the shop’s signature Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches or a burger, you really can’t go wrong with San Antonio’s not-too-hidden gem Gino’s Deli. You can get any of their delicious offerings for under $15. Plus, you can make your meal a combo — with chips and a drink — for only $2.49 more.
Photo via Instagram / ginosdeli
El Bucanero
Multiple Locations, el-bucanero.com
This iconic Mexican seafood spot is known for its extravagant creations, some of which have price tags to match. But delve deep into the voluminous menu, and you’ll find plenty of less expensive options such as $9 tostada mixta towers packed with fresh seafood.
Photo via Instagram / elbucanero
Multiple Locations, el-bucanero.com
This iconic Mexican seafood spot is known for its extravagant creations, some of which have price tags to match. But delve deep into the voluminous menu, and you’ll find plenty of less expensive options such as $9 tostada mixta towers packed with fresh seafood.
Photo via Instagram / elbucanero
Schilo’s Delicatessen
424 E. Commerce St., (210) 223-6692, schilos.com
Schilo’s may be a bit of a tourist hot spot as “the oldest restaurant in San Antonio,” but that doesn’t mean they have touristy prices. You can get the Smorgasbord — two sausages with a side and bread — for $10-12, or a classic reuben sandwich for $13.25. You can wash it all down with a mug of their homemade root beer for $3.50.
Photo via Instagram / kimdparker73
424 E. Commerce St., (210) 223-6692, schilos.com
Schilo’s may be a bit of a tourist hot spot as “the oldest restaurant in San Antonio,” but that doesn’t mean they have touristy prices. You can get the Smorgasbord — two sausages with a side and bread — for $10-12, or a classic reuben sandwich for $13.25. You can wash it all down with a mug of their homemade root beer for $3.50.
Photo via Instagram / kimdparker73
Bigz Burger Joint
Multiple Locations, bigz-burgerjoint.com
Grab yourself a single burger and an order of fries for about $10. If you’re feeling fancy, splurge on a giant fudge pecan brownie, filled with chocolate chips and pecans.
Photo via Instagram / bigzburgerjoint
Multiple Locations, bigz-burgerjoint.com
Grab yourself a single burger and an order of fries for about $10. If you’re feeling fancy, splurge on a giant fudge pecan brownie, filled with chocolate chips and pecans.
Photo via Instagram / bigzburgerjoint
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