Cheap Eats in Charleston

Looking for cheap, local restaurants to try with your friends? Here’s a list of ten places you are bound to enjoy.

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The bar at Early Bird Diner is a fun spot to hangout and eat yummy chicken and waffles for just $12.

As high school students and soon to be college kids, we are always budgeting and looking to save money. We also enjoy going out to eat with our friends and spending time together. Check out this list of cheap eats in Charleston, SC for the next time you want an inexpensive meal.

  1. Jack of Cups Located on Folly Beach, this restaurant is just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean. If you are a lover of Indian cuisine, you must try their vindaloo and baked samosas. Nothing on the menu is above $12!
  2. Fire Street Food This fast-paced, Asian Street comfort food is one of my personal favorites. Choose from a selection of sushi rolls, noodles, sandwiches, hibachi, or curries to satisfy your cravings. You will only need to bring $8-$13 to spend for lunch or dinner.
  3. Early Bird Diner If you are driving around the heart of West Ashley on Savannah Highway 17, you must stop in this diner. This American classic opens its doors early at 7am and closes late at 10:30pm to accomodate all sorts of customers. Be sure to try the signature chicken and waffles for $12.
  4. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit Looking to eat something on the go? Hop into this eatery and grab a few biscuits or sandwich with coffee and tea. Each biscuit is around $3 so it certainly will not break the bank.
  5. Tasty Thai Mount Pleasant Ever find yourself around Coleman Boulevard? This restaurant makes the best $14 Pad Thai and Pad See-Eu in Charleston. You can sit down with your friends and enjoy sharing different dishes family style. Tasty Thai caters to your spice level so your food will always taste just right.

    Nothing satisfies my cravings better than the Pad See-Eu at Tasty Thai in Mount Pleasant. Not to mention I only spend around $10!

    — Claire Hunt

  6. The Codfather Authentic fish and chips are hard to come by, but this hidden gem in North Charleston has just what you’ve been searching for. Mushy peas, curry sauce, and British gravy adorn the menu. This restaurant is less than two miles from Academic Magnet and is affordable for any student on a budget.
  7. Moe’s Crosstown Tavern Some of the best burgers in town can be found at this pub in downtown Charleston. All burgers, wraps, salads, and sandwiches are under $10. Try the Moe’s Extraordinary BLT with fried tomato, mozzarella, bacon, and pesto mayo!
  8. Saveurs du Monde Cafe Chocolate croissants, danishes, french toast, and panini brioche are just a few of the yummy treats you can find at this delicious cafe. This classic French eatery is known for its filling $9 sweet and savory crêpes. I’d recommend the homemade lemon curd crêpe with powdered sugar.
  9. Kairos Greek Kitchen On Bowman Rd you will find this fast-casual approach to dining. Choose a base, protein, spread, and your favorite toppings to create your own delicious meal. Some of the tasty meats include falafel, marinated lamb, or seasoned meatballs. If you are looking for a healthy meal don’t forget to stop by this restaurant.
  10. Johnny’s Hot Dogs The price range of this hot dog restaurant is under $10 so it’s great for young people living on a budget. There are so many hot dog combinations to select that you will have a hard time picking one. Even if you are not a fan, this place has several cold and signature sandwiches for you to try.