Tired of spending SO much money on food (and everything else) lately? Have some relief with this quick guide focused on where you can grab a hearty lunch for $10 or less (we tried to make sure the meals included tax as well). So enjoy these 6 tasty lunch spots that’ll fill you up during that afternoon lull and not break the bank at the same time.
1. Illegal Pete’s
Name aside, Illegal Pete’s is a prime choice if you’re looking to save a couple of bucks. Their burrito, bowl, or 3 Taco Meal all cost $8.89 and are big enough portions that it should fill you up for a couple of hours. The burritos are bulky and probably the most bang for your buck. Pick between a variety of meats, though chicken is the cheapest option at an additional .40 cents, guacamole, cheese, or sour cream, and your choice of fresh toppings like Jalapeño and Cilantro.
Where: 1610 16th St Mall, Denver, CO 80202
2. Zoe Ma Ma
Zoe Ma Ma has a no tipping policy, making it a viable lunch or dinner option for an affordable price. The Za Jiang Ma, a classic Northern Chinese dish, is a big bowl of delicious ingredients like fresh organic egg noodle topped with amazingly seasoned ground pork, a savory and flavorful bean sauce, cucumbers, carrots, scallions, and cilantro. The whole thing coms out to $9 and is delightfully filling.
Where: 1625 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
3. RiNo Beer Garden
There are 3 days of the week where you can get a meal special at RiNo Beer Garden. On Tuesdays you can gorge yourself on as many tacos as you want for only a $1 each. On Wednesdays, enjoy their $7.95 burger special and on Thursdays, you can get a flatbread and a pint from 7pm to close for only $10.
Where: 3800 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205
4. Kokoro
For a filling and healthy rice bowl, Kokoro is a great choice. While their Beef and Vegetable bowl is $9.95 without tax, you can pick their Regular Beer Curry Bowl, Regular Beef Bowl, and Regular Chicken and Vegetable Bowl for less than $10 with tax.
Where: 2390 S Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80222
5. Vinh Xuong Bakery
Made fresh are the banh mi sandwiches at Vinh Xuong Bakery, an excellent place for lunch on a budget. On average, the banh mi sandwiches are priced at around 6 and some change, ranging from pork to chicken to vegetarian and all topped with fresh and crunchy vegetables. You can even turn your banh mi into a bowl if you prefer and because it’s so cheap, we’d recommend adding a coffee or milk tea for a complete lunch.
Where: 2370 W Alameda Ave, Denver, CO 80223
6. Retro Room Lounge
The Retro Room has an excellent $7 Beer and Burger special daily for lunch with the choice of any of their beers on tap, including the craft ones. Their cheeseburger has the option of different types of cheeses and for a side, you’ve got a choice of fries, tater tots, or a small salad. P.S. We’ve even heard there’s a code on the bottom of the receipt for a free beer down the street at their sister bar, making it one heck of a deal for such a small price.
Where: 2034 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205