The Best Cheap Eat Or Drink In Every State That’s Actually Worth The Trip
Great food doesn’t have to cost a fortune – some of America’s most memorable bites come wrapped in foil, poured in paper cups, or served at tiny counters with no pretense at all.
Every state hides a few affordable treasures that taste far richer than their price tag suggests.
Maybe it’s a legendary slice of pie, a diner milkshake, or a plate of tacos that locals would defend with pride.
These cheap eats and drinks prove one simple truth: flavor doesn’t need fancy, just heart, history, and a little grease on the napkin.
1. Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q (Alabama)
Alabama’s barbecue scene hits different when you taste the legendary white sauce at this joint. Since 1925, pitmasters have been smoking meats to perfection and slathering them in that tangy, mayonnaise-based magic.
Chicken drenched in white sauce is the move here, and your taste buds will never be the same. Prices stay low while quality soars high, making this a must-visit barbecue pilgrimage.
2. The Burger Stop (Alaska)
Way up north, burger lovers find salvation at this humble roadside spot. Giant patties get cooked to order while locals swap stories about fishing and hiking adventures.
Everything tastes better when you’re surrounded by Alaskan wilderness, and these burgers prove it. The portions are massive, the prices are fair, and the flavor hits like a grizzly bear hug for your mouth.
3. Carolina’s Mexican Food (Arizona)
Phoenix mornings start right with handmade flour tortillas so fresh they’re still warm. This family-run gem has been serving authentic Mexican breakfast since the 1960s, and nothing beats their burritos.
Carne asada, beans, and perfectly seasoned fillings wrapped in those heavenly tortillas create breakfast perfection. Lines form early, but the wait moves fast and costs less than fancy coffee.
4. CJ’s Butcher Boy Burgers (Arkansas)
Searcy locals know the secret to happiness: a Butcher Boy burger with all the fixings. This old-school spot grinds fresh beef daily and stacks burgers high with crispy bacon and melted cheese.
The retro vibe makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled to simpler days. Your wallet barely notices the damage while your stomach celebrates the victory of finding real deal burgers.
5. In-N-Out Burger (California)
California’s cult-favorite burger chain needs no introduction, but it deserves all the hype. Fresh ingredients, never-frozen beef, and a secret menu keep people coming back for more.
Animal style anything transforms a great meal into an unforgettable experience. Despite massive popularity, prices remain shockingly reasonable, proving fast food can be both cheap and quality-focused without compromise.
6. Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs (Colorado)
Denver’s streets smell like adventure when Biker Jim fires up his grill. Elk, wild boar, and rattlesnake sausages topped with cream cheese and jalapeños sound wild because they are.
This isn’t your ballpark frank – it’s a culinary adventure on a bun. Adventurous eaters find nirvana here, and even picky folks discover new favorites at prices that encourage experimentation.
7. Louis’ Lunch (Connecticut)
History gets served on toast at America’s birthplace of the hamburger. Since 1895, vertical cast-iron grills have been cooking beef patties the old-fashioned way – no ketchup allowed.
Toast replaces buns, cheese and onions are optional, and tradition rules everything. Eating here feels like biting into American history, and the affordable price makes this time travel totally accessible to everyone.
8. Grotto Pizza (Delaware)
Beach towns across Delaware worship at the altar of Grotto Pizza. That signature swirl of sauce creates instant recognition, while the cheese-to-crust ratio achieves scientific perfection.
Locals debate which location is best, but honestly, they’re all winners. Summer vacations aren’t complete without grabbing a pie here, and your budget survives the boardwalk thanks to reasonable pricing.
9. El Mago de las Fritas (Florida)
Miami’s Cuban community knows where to find the best fritas in town. These spiced ground beef burgers topped with crispy shoestring potatoes deliver flavor bombs with every bite.
The secret seasoning blend has been perfected over decades of burger-making excellence. Wash it down with a batido, and you’ve experienced authentic Cuban-American cuisine without spending serious cash.
10. The Varsity (Georgia)
Atlanta’s iconic drive-in has been asking “What’ll ya have?” since 1928. Chili dogs, frosted oranges, and onion rings fuel generations of hungry Georgians looking for quick, tasty satisfaction.
The organized chaos of ordering feels like a rite of passage. Massive portions and tiny prices make this landmark a no-brainer stop for anyone exploring the Peach State’s culinary treasures.
11. Rainbow Drive-In (Hawaii)
Honolulu locals line up for plate lunches that define island comfort food. Loco moco – rice topped with a burger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy – sounds weird but tastes like paradise.
Portions are generous enough to share, though you probably won’t want to. Affordable prices let you experience authentic Hawaiian plate lunch culture without the resort markup that tourists usually face.
12. Big Jud’s (Idaho)
Idaho serves up burgers bigger than your head at this Boise institution. The one-pound patty challenges even the hungriest appetites, but smaller options exist for normal humans.
Fresh-cut fries and thick milkshakes complete the classic American diner experience. Despite the massive portions, prices stay surprisingly affordable, proving that bigger really can be better when done right and delicious.
13. Portillo’s (Illinois)
Chicago’s fast-casual legend serves up Italian beef sandwiches that drip with flavor and au jus. Hot dogs come dragged through the garden with all the classic toppings except ketchup – never ketchup.
The chocolate cake shake sounds insane because it literally has cake blended in. Lines stretch long, but service moves quick, and everything costs less than fancy downtown restaurants.
14. Mug-n-Bun (Indiana)
Indianapolis has treasured this drive-in since 1960, and the nostalgia hits hard. Carhops still deliver food to your window while you sip homemade root beer from frozen mugs.
Onion rings are legendary, burgers are solid, and the whole experience transports you back in time. Affordable pricing makes this retro experience accessible for families creating new memories together.
15. Maid-Rite Sandwich Shop (Iowa)
Iowa’s contribution to sandwich history is the loose meat sandwich – seasoned ground beef piled high on a bun. It’s like a deconstructed burger that somehow tastes even better.
Locations across the state serve this simple perfection with pickles and mustard. The concept sounds basic, but one bite explains why Iowans have been obsessed since 1926 at ridiculously low prices.
16. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Kansas)
Kansas City barbecue royalty started in a gas station and never lost its humble roots. Burnt ends are the holy grail here – crispy, smoky, perfectly seasoned cubes of brisket heaven.
The Z-Man sandwich stacks brisket, provolone, and onion rings between buns. Lines form early and stay long, but the wait is worth it for world-class barbecue at neighborhood prices.
17. Indi’s Fast Food (Kentucky)
Louisville’s best-kept secret serves fried chicken that rivals the Colonel’s but tastes way better. Crispy coating, juicy meat, and soul food sides create the perfect Southern comfort meal.
Locals guard this spot fiercely, but word has spread about the incredible quality. Budget-friendly prices mean you can feast like royalty without the fancy restaurant bill afterwards.
18. Parkway Bakery & Tavern (Louisiana)
New Orleans po’boys reach their peak potential at this legendary spot. Roast beef debris po’boys overflow with tender meat and rich gravy that soaks into perfect French bread.
Fried shrimp versions give the beef serious competition for best sandwich honors. Eating here feels like getting a warm hug from Louisiana itself, and prices stay shockingly reasonable for such quality.
19. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights (Maine)
Ocean views and fresh lobster rolls create the ultimate Maine experience. Picnic tables overlook rocky shores while you crack into perfectly steamed lobster or devour overstuffed rolls.
The lighthouse backdrop makes every photo Instagram-worthy without even trying. Considering you’re eating premium seafood with million-dollar views, prices remain surprisingly accessible for coastal Maine dining standards.
20. Chap’s Pit Beef (Maryland)
Baltimore’s pit beef tradition lives strongest at this roadside stand. Smoky, charred beef gets sliced thin and piled high on kaiser rolls with onions and horseradish.
The outdoor seating and no-frills atmosphere keep the focus on what matters – incredible meat. This Maryland specialty costs way less than fancy steakhouse dinners but delivers equally satisfying beefy goodness every single time.
21. Anna’s Taqueria (Massachusetts)
Boston’s burrito wars have a clear winner for many locals. Massive flour tortillas get stuffed with perfectly seasoned meat, rice, beans, and fresh toppings in assembly-line efficiency.
The size-to-price ratio defies logic in expensive Boston. College students and professionals alike rely on Anna’s for affordable, filling meals that actually taste amazing instead of just cheap and convenient.
22. Lafayette Coney Island (Michigan)
Detroit’s coney dog debate rages eternal between Lafayette and its neighbor American. Lafayette wins for many with its slightly looser chili and snappier hot dogs.
Open 24 hours, this diner feeds late-night cravings and early morning hangovers equally well. The vintage atmosphere and dirt-cheap prices make this Detroit institution essential eating for any visitor.
23. Matt’s Bar (Minnesota)
Minneapolis birthed the Jucy Lucy – a burger with cheese stuffed inside the patty instead of on top. Matt’s Bar claims to have invented this molten masterpiece, and their version remains legendary.
Warning: the cheese stays lava-hot long after serving, so patience prevents burned mouths. This uniquely Minnesotan creation costs less than most regular burgers elsewhere while delivering double the excitement.
24. The Crystal Grill (Mississippi)
Greenwood’s historic restaurant has served Delta cuisine since 1933. Fried catfish, comeback sauce, and hush puppies represent Mississippi cooking at its finest and most authentic.
The vintage booths and checkered floors transport diners to another era. Southern hospitality combines with reasonable prices to create meals that satisfy both stomach and soul without breaking the bank.
25. Blues City Deli (Missouri)
St. Louis keeps one of America’s weirdest sandwiches a delicious secret. The Gerber combines ham, garlic cheese spread, and paprika on Italian bread in ways that shouldn’t work but absolutely do.
One bite hooks you forever on this strange but addictive combination. Locals have been devouring these since the 1970s, and affordable prices encourage adventurous eaters to try something completely different.
26. Mark’s In & Out (Montana)
Montana’s classic drive-in serves burgers and shakes with Big Sky Country views. Simple menu items get executed perfectly – juicy burgers, crispy fries, and thick milkshakes that require serious sucking power.
The retro drive-in experience feels extra special surrounded by mountains. Prices reflect small-town Montana values, meaning you’ll spend less here than at most chain restaurants in bigger cities.
27. Stella’s Bar & Grill (Nebraska)
Bellevue’s neighborhood bar serves up Nebraska comfort food with serious local love. The cheese frenchee – deep-fried cheese sandwich – sounds heart-stopping because it probably is, but tastes absolutely incredible.
Loose meat sandwiches provide a slightly healthier option if you’re being sensible. Either way, you’re eating authentic Nebraska bar food at prices that prove good food doesn’t require fancy restaurants.
28. Dirt Dog (Nevada)
Las Vegas goes wild with hot dogs at this late-night favorite. Bacon-wrapped franks get loaded with everything from mac and cheese to pastrami in combinations that sound crazy but taste genius.
Perfect for post-casino munchies, Dirt Dog serves up indulgence without the strip club prices. Creative topping combinations keep regulars coming back to try new flavor adventures.
29. Red Arrow Diner (New Hampshire)
New Hampshire’s 24-hour diner feeds everyone from truckers to politicians with equal enthusiasm. Massive breakfast plates, homemade meatloaf, and pie slices bigger than your face keep customers satisfied around the clock.
Presidents have campaigned here, but regular folks make up the real clientele. Diner food done right at diner prices proves that some traditions deserve to last forever.
30. White Manna (New Jersey)
Jersey’s slider game peaks at this tiny diner from 1946. Small burgers cook on a flat-top griddle until the edges get crispy and caramelized to absolute perfection.
Order them by the half-dozen because one is never enough to satisfy. The cramped quarters and vintage vibe add character, while rock-bottom prices let you order extra without guilt or financial stress.
31. Frontier Restaurant (New Mexico)
Albuquerque’s legendary spot near the university feeds students and locals alike. Cinnamon rolls are massive, breakfast burritos are stuffed, and green chile covers everything like delicious lava.
The cafeteria-style setup moves crowds quickly despite constant lines. New Mexico flavor comes cheap here, making this the perfect introduction to the state’s chile-obsessed cuisine without tourist trap pricing.
32. Gray’s Papaya (New York)
New York City’s recession special – two hot dogs and a drink – has saved countless budgets. These corner stands serve snappy franks and tropical fruit drinks 24/7 to hungry New Yorkers.
The papaya drink is weirdly addictive despite sounding questionable at first mention. For just a few bucks, you get classic NYC street food that’s fueled everyone from cab drivers to celebrities.
33. Smith’s Soul Food Bistro (North Carolina)
Charlotte’s soul food scene shines brightest at this family-run gem. Fried chicken achieves crispy perfection while collard greens, mac and cheese, and candied yams complete the Southern feast.
Everything tastes like somebody’s grandmother made it with love and butter. Generous portions at modest prices mean you’ll leave stuffed, satisfied, and already planning your next visit here soon.
34. Kroll’s Diner (North Dakota)
North Dakota’s German heritage shows up deliciously at this regional chain. Knoephla soup – creamy potato dumpling goodness – warms you from the inside, especially during brutal prairie winters.
Fleischkuekle, a deep-fried meat pocket, provides serious comfort food satisfaction. These unique regional specialties cost less than generic chain food while offering way more flavor and cultural connection.
35. Swensons Drive-In (Ohio)
Ohio’s beloved drive-in still uses carhops who literally run your food to your car. The Galley Boy – double cheeseburger with special sauce – inspires cult-like devotion among Northeast Ohio residents.
Fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation keep quality high despite fast-food prices. Watching carhops sprint between cars adds entertainment value to an already excellent meal that costs surprisingly little.
36. Tucker’s Onion Burgers (Oklahoma)
Oklahoma’s Depression-era innovation put onions in burgers to stretch the meat further. Tucker’s keeps this tradition alive with thin patties smashed onto piles of onions that caramelize into sweet, savory perfection.
The technique creates incredible flavor while keeping costs low just like the original purpose. Simple, delicious, and affordable – this burger style deserves way more national recognition than it currently receives.
37. Pine State Biscuits (Oregon)
Portland’s biscuit obsession centers around this breakfast spot. The Reggie – fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and gravy on a buttermilk biscuit – is basically breakfast heaven between two fluffy halves.
Lines form before opening, but the wait moves steadily forward. Southern comfort food meets Pacific Northwest quality ingredients at prices that won’t wreck your Portland vacation budget completely.
38. Jim’s Steaks (Pennsylvania)
Philadelphia’s cheesesteak debate rages eternal, but Jim’s consistently delivers the goods. Thinly sliced ribeye meets melted cheese (Whiz, provolone, or American – choose your religion) on perfect Amoroso rolls.
South Street location offers prime people-watching while you eat your masterpiece. Tourist traps charge more for worse steaks, making Jim’s the smart choice for authentic Philly flavor at honest prices.
39. Olneyville New York System (Rhode Island)
Rhode Island’s hot wieners confuse outsiders but delight locals endlessly. Small hot dogs get topped with meat sauce, mustard, onions, and celery salt in a combination that defines Providence cuisine.
Order them “all the way” and embrace the messy deliciousness ahead. These tiny flavor bombs cost almost nothing, letting you order a half-dozen without worrying about your wallet or waistline.
40. Melvin’s BBQ (South Carolina)
South Carolina’s mustard-based barbecue sauce divides the barbecue world, but Melvin’s converts skeptics daily. Tangy, slightly sweet sauce coats tender pulled pork in ways that make Carolina barbecue absolutely unique.
Hash over rice provides another regional specialty worth trying here. Multiple locations across the state make this affordable barbecue accessible no matter where your South Carolina adventures take you.
41. Nick’s Hamburger Shop (South Dakota)
South Dakota’s oldest operating restaurant has flipped burgers since 1929. Sliders come with pickles and onions on soft buns, simple and perfect in their execution and timeless appeal.
The lunch counter and vintage atmosphere transport you back to simpler times. College students and grandparents alike pack this place, united by love for cheap, delicious burgers that never change or disappoint.
42. Dyer’s Burgers (Tennessee)
Memphis serves up burgers fried in grease that’s allegedly been used since 1912. Sounds gross, tastes incredible – the seasoned oil creates a crust that’s impossibly flavorful and completely unique.
This cooking method makes Dyer’s burgers unlike anything else you’ll ever taste. The novelty factor alone justifies a visit, but the actual deliciousness keeps people coming back despite the questionable cooking technique explanation.
43. Torchy’s Tacos (Texas)
Texas taco game gets elevated at this Austin-born chain. Creative combinations like the Trailer Park – fried chicken, green chilies, and cheese on a flour tortilla – push boundaries while respecting traditions.
Queso deserves its own fan club for being creamy, spicy perfection. Despite growing into a chain, quality stays high and prices remain reasonable for tacos this creative and consistently delicious every single time.
44. Crown Burgers (Utah)
Salt Lake City’s unique contribution to burger culture adds pastrami to everything. The Crown Burger stacks beef patty, pastrami, cheese, and special sauce in a combination that shouldn’t work but absolutely does.
Greek immigrant founders created this fusion decades ago, and Utah hasn’t looked back. Fry sauce – that mayo-ketchup mixture – makes everything better at prices that keep locals coming back weekly or more.
45. Handy’s Lunch (Vermont)
Vermont’s oldest operating lunch counter has served simple perfection since 1930. Burgers get cooked on a flat-top griddle while regulars chat with staff who remember everyone’s usual orders perfectly.
Hand-cut fries and homemade pie complete the classic diner experience here. Small-town charm combines with rock-bottom prices to create meals that feel like visiting your favorite aunt’s kitchen every single visit.
46. Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue (Virginia)
Norfolk’s drive-in claims to have invented the ice cream cone at the 1904 World’s Fair. Whether true or not, their waffle cones stay fresh and delicious alongside surprisingly good barbecue sandwiches.
The combination of barbecue and ice cream seems random but works perfectly. Vintage carhop service and affordable prices create a throwback experience that feels special without the modern restaurant markup nonsense.
47. Dick’s Drive-In (Washington)
Seattle’s beloved burger chain treats employees amazingly well while keeping prices incredibly low. Dick’s Deluxe burgers come with special sauce, lettuce, and pickles in a simple but perfect combination.
The business model focuses on doing a few things exceptionally well. Lines move fast, quality stays consistent, and your wallet barely feels the impact of feeding yourself actual good food instead of garbage.
48. Hillbilly Hot Dogs (West Virginia)
West Virginia embraces its stereotype with this wonderfully weird hot dog joint. Fifteen-pound burgers exist for the insane, but the real stars are creative hot dogs with toppings like homemade chili and coleslaw.
The converted bus and eclectic decor match the over-the-top menu perfectly. Reasonable prices on most items mean you can enjoy the experience without attempting any dangerous food challenges whatsoever.
49. Kopp’s Frozen Custard (Wisconsin)
Milwaukee’s frozen custard obsession reaches its peak at Kopp’s. Daily flavor specials keep regulars guessing while classic vanilla and chocolate satisfy traditionalists who know what they like.
Burgers are surprisingly good too, but custard is the real star here. Rich, creamy, and fresher than ice cream, this Wisconsin staple costs less than premium ice cream shops while tasting infinitely better always.
50. Crowbar & Grill (Wyoming)
Wyoming serves up bison burgers at this Laramie favorite. Leaner than beef but incredibly flavorful, bison meat gets cooked perfectly and topped with creative combinations that highlight local ingredients.
Sweet potato fries provide the perfect sidekick to your wild game burger. Despite using premium Wyoming bison, prices stay reasonable, letting you taste the West without paying steakhouse prices for the authentic experience.
