The Absolute Best Cheap Eats in Durham [Updated 2025]

Whether you're a local looking to spice up your lunch routine or a visitor eager to explore the culinary scene without breaking the bank, I've got you covered. After exploring a dozen of Durham's most delicious spots, I can confidently say that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

As someone who’s spent countless hours tasting and critiquing, I’ve tasted everything from mouthwatering tacos to soul-warming bowls of ramen. I’ve navigated the city’s vibrant food landscape to find those treasures that deliver big flavor while keeping your wallet happy. Trust me, these are the places you’ll want to add to your must-try list!

Farmside Kitchen - Durham RTP

Highlights
Customizable salad options
Fresh and delicious flavors
Busy lunchtime atmosphere
Quick service
Build-your-own experience

Farmside Kitchen - Durham RTP is an absolute gem for anyone on the hunt for affordable yet satisfying meals. Walking in, I was greeted by the enticing aromas of fresh ingredients, and let me tell you, this place is alive—especially during lunch hour! The atmosphere buzzed with lively chatter and the hustle of fellow food lovers.

What I truly appreciated was the customizable salad options. I adored the build-your-own concept; it felt like I was crafting a delicious masterpiece tailored just for me. Every ingredient I chose—from vibrant greens to zesty toppings—was fresh and bursting with flavor. It’s no wonder that people flock to this spot during lunch; the quick service ensures you won’t be waiting long even when the place is bustling.

Biting into my salad, I couldn’t help but appreciate how each component worked harmoniously together. Farmside Kitchen not only prioritizes quality but balances it beautifully with a price that won’t make your wallet cringe. If you're hungry for something healthy, delicious, and easy on the wallet, I wholeheartedly recommend Farmside Kitchen. You'll leave with a satisfied appetite and a cheery heart!

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Home Plate Restaurant

Highlights
Old-fashioned country vibe
Affordable family meals
Good pork chop and fried chicken
Popular banana pudding
Friendly staff experience

Home Plate Restaurant in Durham quickly became one of my favorite stops for comfort food without breaking the bank. Upon entering, the old-fashioned country vibe wraps around you like a warm blanket—think checked tablecloths and a friendly atmosphere that feels like a visit to your grandmother’s kitchen.

The menu is filled with affordable family meals that tug at your heartstrings and your wallet! I couldn't resist ordering the pork chop and fried chicken, both of which came out perfectly cooked, juicy, and seasoned just right. The portions were generous; I left more than satisfied.

One of the highlights of my visit was the popular banana pudding—sweet, creamy, and oh-so-decadent, it’s a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl!

But what truly made my meal special was the friendly staff. Their warm smiles and attentive service turned a simple dining experience into a delightful outing.

In a city filled with culinary options, Home Plate stands out as a true gem of cheap eats. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that soothes the soul, this is the place to go!

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NuvoTaco

Highlights
Best Mexican food in Durham
Accommodating to dietary restrictions
Quick and affordable options
Great outdoor seating
Excellent chips and salsa

Review of NuvoTaco

If you're on the hunt for delightful Mexican food without breaking the bank in Durham, look no further than NuvoTaco. Tucked away in a cozy spot, this gem offers a menu brimming with flavor and options that cater to various dietary restrictions, making it a fantastic choice for everyone in your group.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the excellent chips and salsa. Fresh and zesty, they are the perfect start to your meal and will keep you coming back for more. As someone who appreciates quick service, I was pleased to find that my order arrived promptly, allowing me to enjoy my meal without the dreaded wait.

The outdoor seating area is an inviting option, perfect for sunny days when you want to savor your tacos al fresco. Whether you’re craving classic tacos or exploring their innovative twists, NuvoTaco’s menu delivers satisfying meals at affordable prices.

In a city filled with choices, NuvoTaco truly stands out as a top pick for cheap eats, bringing bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Overall, I left with a smile and a content belly, eagerly anticipating my next visit!

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Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas

Highlights
Sensational Peruvian chicken
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff
Expertly crafted mojitos
Perfectly marinated and juicy
Inspiring side dishes offered

When I stepped into Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas, I felt instantly welcomed by the cozy atmosphere and the cheerful, friendly staff. This vibrant eatery is a hidden treasure for anyone seeking sensational, budget-friendly bites. The star of the show, undoubtedly, is their Peruvian chicken—juicy, perfectly marinated, and bursting with flavor. I savored each bite; it’s hard to believe you can find such high-quality fare without breaking the bank.

But wait, there’s more! As I settled in, I couldn't resist trying their mojitos. Expertly crafted and refreshingly zesty, they perfectly complemented the rich flavors of my meal. And let’s not forget about the side dishes! With options that inspire and tantalize the palate, they effortlessly elevate the overall dining experience.

If you’re on the hunt for affordably delicious food in Durham, look no further than Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas. Whether you're seeking a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this place is sure to put a smile on your face (and a little dance in your step)! So, grab your friends and head over to indulge in a delightful culinary adventure without burning a hole in your wallet!

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Soul Forking Good

Highlights
Delicious shrimp and wings
Friendly and attentive staff
Freshly made to perfection
Variety of mouthwatering dishes
Highly recommended dining experience

Soul Forking Good is a delightful gem in Durham that effortlessly serves up a dish of exuberance along with great food. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly and attentive staff who effortlessly made me feel at home—a true testament to Southern hospitality!

As I browsed their mouthwatering menu, I couldn't resist indulging in their freshly made shrimp and wings. Oh, heavenly, let me tell you! Each bite was a burst of flavor, making it hard to believe such goodness comes at an affordable price. It's the kind of food that tells your taste buds they’ve landed in flavor town!

One of the highlights of my experience was the variety offered—whether you're craving something hearty or light, there’s something here for everyone. It’s easy to see why this spot comes highly recommended; you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart.

If you're searching for your next favorite cheap eat in Durham, I wholeheartedly suggest you swing by Soul Forking Good. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

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Little Bull

Highlights
Fresh and vibrant flavors
Stunning food presentation
Cozy outdoor dining
Attentive and friendly service
Flavorful barbacoa and salsas

Little Bull in Durham is a gem for anyone seeking vibrant flavors without breaking the bank. As I approached the quaint exterior, I was immediately drawn in by the cozy outdoor seating that beckoned patrons to relax and enjoy. The atmosphere was inviting, creating a perfect backdrop for what was to come.

Once seated, I was greeted by attentive and friendly service—a refreshing start to my culinary journey. I opted for their famous barbacoa, and let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion! Each bite was succulent, bursting with spices that danced on my palate. The accompanying salsas were equally impressive, offering a delightful kick that complemented the meat beautifully.

What truly stood out was the stunning food presentation. Each plate was a work of art, enticing the eyes and tantalizing the taste buds. It’s clear that the team at Little Bull takes pride in their craft, ensuring that every dish is as appealing as it is delicious.

In the heart of Durham, Little Bull shines brightly on the cheap eats landscape, proving that creativity and quality don't have to come with a hefty price tag. A must-visit for anyone craving exquisite flavors on a budget!

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Alimentari at Mothers & Sons

Highlights
Incredible soup of the day
Beautiful and classic interior
Relaxing lunch atmosphere
Excellent sandwich options
Observant and efficient staff

Alimentari at Mothers & Sons is a hidden gem that totally revitalized my lunch routine. Stepping through the door, I was greeted by a beautiful and classic interior that instantly felt cozy and inviting—perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal. The atmosphere is just serene enough to escape the hustle and bustle of the day.

On the menu, I couldn't resist trying the soup of the day. Let me tell you, it was a warming hug in a bowl—rich, flavorful, and simply delightful. Each slurp felt like a little celebration of comfort. The sandwich options were equally impressive; crafted with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, each bite set off tiny culinary fireworks in my mouth.

Furthermore, the staff was observant and efficient, ensuring that my experience was smooth and enjoyable—yet they also allowed me to savor my meal without interruption.It's places like Alimentari that remind me that great food doesn’t have to break the bank. If you're wandering around Durham and in need of an affordable bite, I highly recommend stopping by this little haven. You won't regret it!

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Nikos

Highlights
Stunning decor
Authentic and delectable food
Amazing staff
Great service
Special birthday treats

Visiting Nikos in Durham is truly a delightful escape for anyone craving delicious and affordable Greek cuisine. As I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the stunning decor that transported me straight to the Mediterranean. The ambiance sets the perfect backdrop for a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner.

The authentic and delectable food is indeed the star of the show, with flavors so vibrant that they dance on your palate. I indulged in the classic gyros, which were generously stuffed with tender, marinated meat and fresh veggies, all drizzled with the most delightful tzatziki sauce. Every bite was a celebration of flavor.

What really stood out was the amazing staff. They were friendly, welcoming, and attentive, ensuring that my experience was nothing short of exceptional. The great service complemented the meal perfectly, which is something I always appreciate in a dining experience.

But wait, there's more! On my visit, I was lucky enough to experience their special birthday treats, adding a sweet surprise to my meal. If you're on the hunt for the best cheap eats in Durham, look no further than Nikos—it's a hidden gem that's worth every penny!

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Cosmic Cantina

Stepping into Cosmic Cantina feels like a delightful journey through a vibrant galaxy of flavors! Their enchiladas and burritos are not just affordable; they’re packed with cosmic goodness that dances on your taste buds. I opted for the veggie burrito, overflowing with fresh ingredients and seasoned to perfection, all for under ten bucks! The ambiance buzzes with a fun, laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. For anyone craving delicious, budget-friendly Mexican fare, Cosmic Cantina is a must-visit in Durham! Your taste buds will thank you for this interstellar experience!

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King's Sandwich Shop

King's Sandwich Shop is a delightful gem tucked away in Durham, where flavors dance on your taste buds without breaking the bank. I indulged in their famous steak & cheese, an honest-to-goodness masterpiece with layers of savory goodness. The sandwich was generous in size, and richly packed without sacrificing freshness. Both the atmosphere and service were warm, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. For anyone seeking affordable deliciousness, King's is a must-visit! You’ll leave not just full but also grinning from ear to ear—what more could you want?

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Let's Eat Soul Food

Oh, where do I begin with Let's Eat Soul Food? This gem serves up hearty comfort fare that warms the soul without burning a hole in your wallet! The fried chicken was crispy and juicy, the collard greens were seasoned to perfection, and the cornbread? Heavenly! What truly impressed me was the generous portions—definitely bang for your buck. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made the experience all the more delightful. If you’re on the lookout for a soul-satisfying meal that won't break the bank, Let's Eat Soul Food is a must-visit in Durham!

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Guglhupf Restaurant

Guglhupf Restaurant is a delightful gem that celebrates German and European flavors without breaking the bank. This charming eatery offers a cozy atmosphere and a stunning array of freshly baked goods. I savored their famed sausage rolls paired with a crisp side salad—both satisfying and budget-friendly. The casual vibe makes it perfect for a quick bite or leisurely brunch with friends. Don’t miss their exquisite pastries, which are a sweet bargain in themselves! Overall, Guglhupf is a must-visit for anyone seeking delicious cuisine at an affordable price in Durham. Bring your appetite!

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