Defining “Cheap” & Budgeting Smartly
Before diving into the delicious details, let’s clarify what we mean by “cheap.” In the context of this article, we’re focusing on dining options that won’t break the bank. We’ll consider anything with a price point that allows you to eat for a reasonable amount. This means you’re looking at ways to get great food for a great price.
Now, let’s talk about some smart ways to stretch your food budget when exploring Virginia Beach:
- Embrace Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer fantastic lunch deals, often at a reduced price compared to their dinner menus. This is a perfect opportunity to sample a restaurant’s best offerings without the premium price tag.
- Happy Hour is Your Friend: Happy hour isn’t just for drinks! Many establishments offer discounted appetizers and small plates during their happy hour, making it a great time to enjoy a tasty meal at a fraction of the regular cost. Finding cheap eats Virginia Beach with a happy hour is a great way to make it easier.
- Share the Love (and the Meal): Consider sharing entrees, especially if portion sizes are generous. This can significantly reduce the cost per person. It’s a fantastic way to sample a variety of dishes, too!
- Hit the Food Trucks: Virginia Beach is home to a thriving food truck scene, often serving up delicious, affordable meals. Food trucks provide an excellent opportunity to find diverse cuisines at reasonable prices. Look for them around popular areas and during events. This can be the ultimate experience for finding cheap food Virginia Beach offers.
- Picnic on the Beach: Pack your own lunch and enjoy a scenic picnic on the beach. This is a classic way to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without spending a fortune.
- Consider the Kitchen: If your accommodation has a kitchen, cook some of your meals. Groceries can be much cheaper than eating out every day. You can still experience cheap food Virginia Beach has to offer even with this strategy.
- Harness the Power of Coupons: Check local publications, websites, and apps for coupons and discounts. Every little bit helps!
Casual Restaurants and Fast Casual Delights
Virginia Beach boasts a wealth of casual restaurants and fast-casual options that are ideal for budget-conscious travelers. These establishments offer diverse cuisines and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a quick, delicious, and cheap meal Virginia Beach style.
Pelon’s Baja Grill
Nestled in the heart of the beach area, Pelon’s is a local favorite for authentic Baja-style Mexican cuisine. This bustling spot is known for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and incredibly affordable prices. Their tacos are legendary, with a variety of fillings available, from grilled fish to carne asada. Burritos are also a popular choice, perfect for filling you up without emptying your wallet. Expect to find tasty entrees under the price of other restaurants and in general, a great spot to find cheap food Virginia Beach has.
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Why it’s cheap: Generous portions, affordable taco prices, daily specials.
- Location: 1205 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Doc Taylor’s Restaurant
A true Virginia Beach institution, Doc Taylor’s is a cozy restaurant with a homey atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxed meal. They serve classic American comfort food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Their breakfast offerings are particularly noteworthy, with hearty omelets and pancakes available at budget-friendly prices. Their lunch and dinner menus also feature affordable options, such as sandwiches, burgers, and daily specials. This is the epitome of a great spot to grab cheap eats Virginia Beach.
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
- Why it’s cheap: Hearty portions, affordable prices, daily specials, and a casual atmosphere.
- Location: 205 32nd St, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
The Jewish Mother
A well-known spot for visitors and locals alike, this restaurant offers an eclectic menu and a lively atmosphere. They serve everything from classic deli sandwiches to creative dinner plates, and their portions are always generous. Look for daily specials and early-bird deals to maximize your savings. With various choices, you are sure to find yourself some cheap food Virginia Beach has.
- Cuisine: American/Eclectic
- Why it’s cheap: Generous portions, specials, and a wide variety of budget-friendly options.
- Location: Multiple locations
Pizza places
Your Pie: Choose a quick and easy pizza with various toppings. Known for its quality and affordability, it is a classic example of cheap eats Virginia Beach.
Burger Joints
Five Guys: A classic burger joint known for its fresh ingredients and customizable options. Five Guys is a solid choice for a cheap meal Virginia Beach has.
Mexican Food Options
Plaza Azteca: A lively Mexican restaurant with a wide variety of dishes at budget-friendly prices. From sizzling fajitas to flavorful enchiladas, Plaza Azteca offers a taste of Mexico that won’t break the bank. Be sure to check their lunch specials and happy hour deals for even greater value, a sure spot for finding cheap eats Virginia Beach.
Food Trucks and Street Food Adventures
Virginia Beach’s food truck scene adds a dash of excitement and affordability to your culinary journey. These mobile eateries offer a convenient and delicious way to grab a bite on the go, often at prices that are hard to beat. These are classic destinations to find cheap food Virginia Beach.
Cactus Jacks’s Food Truck
A local favorite, Cactus Jacks’s Food Truck offers a diverse menu with delicious options. This is where you can get a good bite to eat without breaking the bank.
- Cuisine: Eclectic.
- Popular Dishes: Street food, tacos, etc.
- Price Range: Affordable, under the normal range
- Location: Check their social media for their daily location. This is a prime spot to find cheap food Virginia Beach offers.
The Grilled Cheese Bistro
Specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. They often have special events where they offer different meals.
- Cuisine: American
- Popular Dishes: The menu often varies and they may have different daily meals.
- Price Range: Affordable
- Location: Check their social media for their daily location.
Local Dive Bars and Pubs for Budget Bites
Dive bars and pubs offer a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, often with budget-friendly food options. Look for daily specials, happy hour deals, and pub-style classics that are perfect for a casual and affordable meal.
Cactus Jacks’s
A lively bar offering classic pub fare and often with specials that are very popular. This is another great place to find cheap eats Virginia Beach.
- Atmosphere: Casual, lively, friendly.
- Cheap Eats/Specials: Check for daily specials and happy hour deals.
- Location: Check local guides for specific locations
Waterman’s Surfside Grille
Offers fantastic views of the ocean with happy hour specials
- Atmosphere: Fun and energetic.
- Cheap Eats/Specials: Specials are common, especially during happy hour.
- Location: 415 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Recommendations for Specific Budget Meal Types
Quick and Cheap Lunch Spots
Look for delis, sandwich shops, and food trucks. Pelon’s Baja Grill and Doc Taylor’s are also great choices. These are some good cheap food Virginia Beach options to consider.
Cheap Breakfast Destinations
Doc Taylor’s and the Jewish Mother offer amazing breakfast menus with affordable prices.
Cheap Eats with Kids
Casual restaurants with kid-friendly menus and affordable prices, such as Pizza places, and burger joints are great choices. Also consider food trucks for quick and easy meals on the go. Remember, these spots offer cheap food Virginia Beach for you to consider.
Further Tips and Tricks
- Explore Local Areas: Venture away from the immediate tourist areas to discover more affordable options. Local neighborhoods often house hidden gems with great food at lower prices.
- Harness Digital Resources: Search online for reviews, blogs, and websites dedicated to finding cheap food Virginia Beach options. This will help you find spots you might have otherwise missed.
- Consider the Season: Prices often fluctuate depending on the season. Visiting during the off-season can sometimes lead to lower prices and better deals.
Conclusion
Finding delicious and cheap food Virginia Beach is entirely possible. By embracing the tips outlined in this guide, from exploring casual restaurants and food trucks to utilizing happy hour deals and lunch specials, you can savor all the flavors of Virginia Beach without straining your budget. Remember to consider your resources, your location, and to embrace the options that best suit your palate. With a little planning, you can experience the best that this coastal city has to offer, all while keeping your wallet happy.
So, now, go forth and explore the culinary delights of Virginia Beach! Your taste buds and your bank account will thank you!
