Memphis, Tennessee, a city pulsating with music, history, and a deeply rooted culinary soul, often conjures images of Beale Street blues and smoky barbecue joints. But beyond the iconic tourist attractions lies a vibrant and diverse food scene accessible to everyone, even those watching their wallets. Have you ever found yourself craving authentic Memphis flavors without breaking the bank? This guide is your passport to discovering the most delicious and cheap food in Memphis, ensuring you can experience the city’s culinary heart without emptying your pockets.
Memphis’s food scene is a melting pot of Southern traditions, international influences, and innovative culinary creations. From soulful comfort food to spicy Latin flavors, there’s a taste for every palate. This article is tailored for students, budget travelers, and locals seeking affordable dining options. We’re uncovering hidden gems and well-known favorites where you can savor the essence of Memphis without sacrificing quality or flavor. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure that proves delicious doesn’t have to mean expensive.
Defining Affordable Dining in Memphis
Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s establish what “cheap” means in the context of Memphis dining. For the purpose of this guide, we’ll define affordable meals as those costing under fifteen dollars. Of course, prices are always subject to change, and it’s wise to verify current pricing before heading out. Many restaurants offer daily specials or promotions that can further reduce costs. Remember to check websites or call ahead to confirm the latest deals. The goal is to provide a reliable starting point for your budget-friendly culinary exploration.
Soul Food Sensations on a Budget
No trip to Memphis is complete without indulging in authentic soul food, and fortunately, you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience its heartwarming flavors. Soul food restaurants in Memphis offer a delicious and filling experience that often leaves you with leftovers to enjoy later.
One standout example is The Four Roses Restaurant. This beloved local spot is known for its generous portions of classic soul food dishes. Think crispy fried chicken, smothered pork chops, collard greens cooked to perfection, mac and cheese that melts in your mouth, and sweet cornbread that tastes like grandma made it. You can easily assemble a satisfying meal with a meat and two or three sides for under fifteen dollars. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a comforting and affordable meal.
Another excellent choice is Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken. While famous for its uniquely sauced chicken (a must-try!), they also offer a variety of affordable sides. The chicken comes in several portion sizes, allowing you to control the cost. The sides, like baked beans, greens, and potato salad, are all prepared with the same care and attention as the main event.
For a truly traditional experience, consider Cozy Corner Restaurant. While known for its ribs, they also have daily lunch specials and affordable sides that make it a great option for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal. Their dedication to quality and authentic flavors shines through in every dish.
Barbecue on a Buck
Memphis and barbecue are practically synonymous, but enjoying this iconic cuisine doesn’t require breaking the bank. While some of the city’s famous barbecue joints can be pricey, there are plenty of spots where you can get your fix without emptying your wallet.
Payne’s Bar-B-Que is a local favorite renowned for its pulled pork sandwiches piled high with their signature mustard slaw. These sandwiches are incredibly affordable and offer a true taste of Memphis barbecue. The no-frills atmosphere and long lines are a testament to the quality and value of the food.
Another solid option is Marlowe’s Ribs. They offer a variety of affordable sandwiches and smaller portions of their famous ribs. Their special sauce is sweet and tangy and a regional favorite. While maybe a little above our maximum spend, the portions are generous, and you may even have leftovers.
Don’t forget the smaller, family-owned barbecue spots scattered throughout the city. Often, these hidden gems offer the most authentic and affordable barbecue experiences. Ask locals for recommendations; they’ll likely point you towards some truly memorable and budget-friendly options.
Tacos and Latin Flavors for an Affordable Fiesta
Memphis’s Latin food scene is thriving, offering a vibrant array of affordable and flavorful options. From authentic tacos to savory pupusas, there’s a Latin dish to satisfy every craving and budget.
Las Tortugas Deli Mexicana is a popular spot known for its authentic Mexican tortas (sandwiches) and tacos. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors are bold, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Try their carne asada tacos or the Cubana torta for a truly satisfying and affordable meal.
For a taste of Central America, check out El Pulgarcito Restaurant. This place specializes in pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, and meat. They are delicious, filling, and incredibly affordable. Pair them with curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and salsa roja for a complete and authentic experience.
Sandwiches and Deli Delights for a Budget Lunch
Sometimes, all you need is a good sandwich. Memphis has you covered with a variety of delis and sandwich shops offering delicious and affordable lunch options.
Raffe’s Deli is a local institution known for its piled-high sandwiches and homemade soups. They have a wide variety of options, from classic turkey and swiss to creative specialty sandwiches. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a perfect spot for a filling and affordable lunch.
Another excellent choice is Fino’s from the Hill. This Italian deli offers a variety of delicious sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. Their Italian cold cut sandwich is a classic, and their pasta salads are a perfect side. They use fresh, high-quality ingredients and prepare everything with care.
International Bites: Exploring Global Flavors on a Dime
Memphis is a diverse city, and its food scene reflects that with a variety of international restaurants offering affordable and flavorful dishes.
For a taste of Vietnam, head to Pho Saigon. A steaming bowl of pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, is both comforting and affordable. The broth is rich and flavorful, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and vibrant.
If you’re craving Ethiopian food, check out Abyssinia Restaurant. Their flavorful stews and injera bread (a spongy flatbread) are a delicious and affordable way to experience Ethiopian cuisine. The vegetarian options are also excellent.
Pizza and Pasta: Casual and Cost-Effective
Pizza and pasta are always reliable choices for a quick, easy, and affordable meal. Memphis has plenty of pizzerias and Italian restaurants that won’t break the bank.
Aldo’s Pizza Pies is a popular spot known for its delicious and affordable pizzas. They have a wide variety of toppings and crust options. You can grab a slice or order a whole pie to share. The atmosphere is casual and lively, making it a perfect spot for a fun and affordable meal.
For a taste of classic Italian-American cuisine, check out Garibaldi’s Pizza. They offer a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches at reasonable prices. Their portions are generous, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.
Sweet Treats and Cheap Desserts
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Memphis has plenty of affordable dessert options to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Jerry’s Sno Cones is a Memphis institution known for its shaved ice topped with a sweet cream. It’s a refreshing and affordable treat perfect for a hot day.
For a classic donut fix, head to Gibson’s Donuts. They have a wide variety of donuts, from classic glazed to creative specialty flavors. The prices are reasonable, and the donuts are always fresh.
Tips for Saving Money on Food in Memphis
Beyond specific restaurant recommendations, here are some general tips for saving money on food in Memphis:
- Lunch Specials: Take advantage of lunch specials offered by many restaurants.
- Happy Hour Deals: Look for restaurants with affordable happy hour menus, often featuring discounted appetizers and drinks.
- Food Trucks: Explore Memphis’s vibrant food truck scene for unique and budget-friendly options.
- Grocery Stores: Consider picking up ingredients for a picnic lunch at a local grocery store.
- Apps and Rewards Programs: Utilize apps like Yelp and Groupon for potential dining deals and discounts.
- Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes. Some restaurants offer large portions at a lower price, allowing you to share or save leftovers.
- Eat Like a Local: Ask locals for their favorite cheap eats spots. They often know the hidden gems that aren’t in guidebooks.
Conclusion
Memphis proves that experiencing a city’s culinary scene doesn’t require a hefty budget. With a little planning and exploration, you can discover a wealth of delicious and affordable options, from soulful comfort food to vibrant international flavors. Explore the recommendations in this guide, venture off the beaten path, and discover your own favorite cheap eats in Memphis. The culinary adventure awaits, and the savings will make the experience even sweeter. Share your favorite budget-friendly finds in the comments below!
