Hungry but broke in Lincoln, Nebraska? We’ve all been there. Whether you’re a student pinching pennies, a family looking for an affordable night out, or just someone who appreciates a good deal, finding delicious and budget-friendly food can feel like a challenge. But fear not, Lincoln is brimming with hidden culinary gems offering fantastic value for your hard-earned cash. We’re talking about affordable meals, budget-friendly options, and places where you genuinely get good value for your money. This article is your guide to some of the best spots to find tasty and affordable food in Lincoln, Nebraska, proving that you don’t need to empty your wallet for a satisfying meal. Get ready to discover delectable tacos, mouthwatering pizza, incredible lunch specials, and happy hour deals that will leave you and your bank account happy.
Taco Heaven: Affordable and Delicious Mexican Options
Lincoln boasts a vibrant Mexican food scene, and thankfully, many of those delicious offerings are incredibly budget-friendly. Tacos are a staple for anyone looking for cheap food Lincoln NE, and these spots deliver on both taste and affordability.
Maria Bonita
This local favorite is known for its authentic Mexican flavors and generous portions. If you are a fan of cheap food lincoln ne you might already know Maria Bonita. Their Taco Tuesday deal is legendary, offering a variety of tacos at a seriously discounted price. The al pastor is a must-try, and their homemade salsas add an extra kick of flavor. You can generally get several tacos here for under a reasonable price, making it an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. Maria Bonita is located on a main road, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
El Taco Riendo Food Truck
For a truly authentic and street-food experience, El Taco Riendo is hard to beat. This food truck is a local staple, parked in a convenient location. They serve up classic tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at incredibly low prices. Their marinated meats are flavorful, and their toppings are fresh. The simplicity and affordability of El Taco Riendo make it a perfect option for those seeking cheap food Lincoln NE on the go. They offer daily specials, so check their social media to see what’s on offer.
La Paz Restaurant
Offering both traditional and American style Mexican cuisine, La Paz restaurant is a local go-to for some cheap food lincoln ne. The restaurant offers many different types of plates and dishes that are inexpensive. They pride themselves in customer service and fresh ingredients.
The taco scene in Lincoln offers a delicious and affordable way to explore Mexican flavors. From classic street tacos to authentic family recipes, you’re sure to find a taco that satisfies your cravings without breaking the bank. These establishments embody the essence of cheap food Lincoln NE, proving that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality or flavor.
Pizza on a Budget: Slices and Whole Pies That Won’t Break the Bank
Who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza? Luckily, finding affordable pizza in Lincoln is easier than you might think. Whether you’re craving a classic slice or a whole pie to share, these pizzerias offer delicious options without emptying your wallet.
Yia Yia’s Pizza
This long-standing Lincoln institution is known for its unique pizza combinations and generous slices. While some of their specialty pizzas can be a bit pricey, they always offer affordable slice options, especially during lunchtime. Their crust is perfectly crispy, and their toppings are always fresh. It’s a popular spot for students and locals alike. Yia Yia’s offers a casual and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite. You can usually find a slice for a low price, making it a solid choice for those seeking cheap food Lincoln NE.
Valentino’s Grand Italian Buffet
Known throughout Nebraska for its authentic flavor, Valentino’s offers a buffet for lunch and dinner that is very affordable. This is a great location to visit if you are looking for cheap food lincoln ne because they also offer unlimited soup and salad, as well as fresh pasta dishes.
Della Voce
A New York style pizza joint. They offer affordable pizza options, especially during their happy hour. Their large pies are perfect for sharing, and their slices are a great quick and satisfying meal. They offer both dine-in and takeout options, making it a convenient choice for a budget-friendly pizza night. Della Voce prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and a traditional New York-style recipe.
Lincoln’s pizza scene provides options for every taste and budget. From classic slices to whole pies perfect for sharing, you can find delicious and affordable pizza without sacrificing quality. The establishments mentioned above truly represent cheap food Lincoln NE, ensuring you can satisfy your pizza cravings without breaking the bank.
Lunch Specials: Quick, Filling, and Easy on the Wallet
Lunchtime doesn’t have to mean expensive. Lincoln has a variety of restaurants offering fantastic lunch specials, providing quick, filling, and affordable options for those on a budget.
Lazlo’s Brewery & Grill
While known for its craft beer, Lazlo’s also offers a surprisingly affordable lunch menu. Their lunch specials often include a smaller portion of one of their signature dishes, paired with a soup or salad. This is a great way to experience their delicious food without the full dinner price. Lazlo’s offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a midday break. The prices are generally low, making it an accessible option for those looking for cheap food Lincoln NE.
Green Gateau
This charming bakery and cafe is known for its delicious pastries, but they also offer a fantastic lunch menu. Their sandwiches and salads are made with fresh ingredients, and their daily lunch specials are always a great value. Green Gateau is a perfect spot for a light and affordable lunch.
Misty’s Steakhouse & Brewery
While known for its steak, Misty’s offers a very cheap and tasty lunch buffet that is delicious and filling. It includes many classic and unique menu items that you and your party will enjoy.
Lincoln’s lunch scene proves that you don’t need to sacrifice quality or taste for affordability. With a variety of restaurants offering fantastic lunch specials, you can enjoy a satisfying midday meal without spending a fortune. The mentioned locations are perfect examples of cheap food Lincoln NE, ensuring that you can find quick, filling, and budget-friendly lunch options.
Happy Hour Heroes: Drinks and Bites for Less
Happy hour is a great way to enjoy delicious food and drinks at a discounted price. Lincoln has a thriving happy hour scene, with many bars and restaurants offering fantastic deals on appetizers and beverages. This is great if you are looking for cheap food lincoln ne
The Tavern on the Square
This popular spot offers a generous happy hour with discounted appetizers and drink specials. Their appetizers are delicious and perfect for sharing. The Tavern on the Square has a lively and social atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind after work. You can enjoy delicious bites and drinks at a reasonable price, making it a prime location for cheap food Lincoln NE and drinks.
Jake’s Cigars and Spirits
Jake’s offers a great happy hour that is very cheap and delicious for the whole party. Enjoy a drink while sitting outside, and if the weather is not on your side, you can enjoy your items inside and watch tv.
Venue Restaurant & Lounge
Venue is a stylish and sophisticated restaurant with a fantastic happy hour. Their happy hour menu includes discounted appetizers, cocktails, and wine. Venue is a great place to enjoy a sophisticated happy hour experience without breaking the bank. The deals provide a premium dining experience for less, demonstrating that cheap food Lincoln NE can also be stylish and refined.
Lincoln’s happy hour scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a variety of options for enjoying delicious food and drinks at a discounted price. Whether you’re looking for appetizers, cocktails, or wine, you’re sure to find a happy hour that suits your taste and budget. These establishments prove that cheap food Lincoln NE can be enjoyed in a fun and social atmosphere.
Other Hidden Gems
Beyond the spots already mentioned, keep an eye out for these hidden gems:
- Farmers Markets: During the warmer months, Lincoln’s farmers markets offer fresh produce and often feature food vendors with affordable eats.
- College Campus Deals: Check for student discounts and promotions at restaurants near the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. Many places offer special deals for students on certain days of the week.
- Ethnic Grocery Stores: Explore Lincoln’s diverse ethnic grocery stores for unique ingredients and affordable snacks. You might discover hidden culinary treasures.
- Community Food Pantries: If you are facing food insecurity, don’t hesitate to reach out to local food banks and pantries. They are there to help.
Conclusion
Finding cheap and delicious food in Lincoln, Nebraska, is absolutely possible. From authentic tacos and mouthwatering pizza to satisfying lunch specials and vibrant happy hour deals, Lincoln has something to offer every taste and budget. The key is to explore, discover local favorites, and take advantage of the many affordable options available. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try new things.
Before you head out to one of the locations above, it is a great idea to check online reviews, look for coupons, and take advantage of loyalty programs to maximize your savings. You can also find discounts for the locations that are student friendly, or for employees on certain days of the week.
What are your favorite cheap eats in Lincoln? Share them in the comments below!
