Seattle's Best Cheap Eats

Don?t expect any fancy toppings at this no-frills Capitol Hill by-the-slice joint. However, the New York-style slices at Big Mario's are enormous and start at less than $3. The walk-up pizza counter caters to the bar-heavy surroundings by staying open until 2am or 4am.

Seattle?s classic cheap eating destination is a local burger chain that dates back to 1954, and the prices seem stuck in a bit of a time warp as well. A regular hamburger costs $1.25, and the deluxe runs $2.70. Even more surprising than the prices--the burgers are pretty good. Dick?s has locations around Seattle that stay open until 2am.

The owner expanded his local taco stand mini-empire into a former KFC and has done little to improve the decor. But that doesn?t stop late-night revelers and daytime bargain seekers from lining up for tacos, burritos and tortas. Tacos are $2 apiece and need only a simple garnish of lime, radish and cilantro to show off the flavorful fillings.

A few items on the famous $5 lunch menu have crept up to $6, which is still a deal for a generous portion of fresh-tasting curry or well-prepared pad Thai. Feeling flush? Spend another $3 for a pan-fried roti flatbread, served with a variety of sweet toppings (it also makes an excellent cheap snack on its own).

This U-District mainstay does indeed have tacos, but the Salvadoran pupusas are the real draw for students and food lovers alike. The thick, handmade cake of masa, or cornmeal, comes stuffed with your choice of meat, beans and veggies. They start at less than $3 apiece, and two make a solid meal. The shop also has a Capitol Hill location.

The crowds at this Oaxacan-style Mexican restaurant are a testament to its superior moles and salsas, as well as the bargain prices. Familiar dishes such as tamales and enchiladas cost about $6 and taste far more expensive.

Cheap sushi isn't always a smart idea. However, this conveyor belt sushi chain is a good bet for straightforward rolls and nigiri at low prices. Many items cost between $1 and $2, so you can fill up for less than $10.