Best Cheap Eats for College Students in Boston

Your Guide to Affordable Food for Students in Boston

Boston is a city known for its historical charm, thriving student life, and some of the best cheap eats you can find on the East Coast. If you are a college student looking for budget-friendly meals near campus, there are many delicious options that won’t break the bank. Discovering spots that offer low-cost, high-quality food can help you save money while enjoying the best flavors Boston has to offer. Here’s where you should look for budget eats, quick lunches, and inexpensive dinner options close to major universities.

Why Boston is Perfect for Food on a Student Budget

Boston is home to dozens of colleges and universities, including Boston University, Northeastern University, Harvard, MIT, and Emerson. With such a large student community, the demand for low-cost and tasty meals is high. Many local restaurants and food trucks cater to students who want quality meals at wallet-friendly prices. You’ll find cheap food near campus, late-night eats, grab-and-go snacks, and satisfying comfort food across the city.

Best Cheap Restaurants Near Colleges in Boston

When you’re juggling classes, studying, and a part-time job, finding a good cheap eat can be a lifesaver. Here are some top-rated places where Boston college students often get the best value:

• Anna’s Taqueria – Known for its generous and tasty burritos, tacos, and quesadillas. Most meals cost less than $10 and the food is filling. With several locations across the city, Anna’s is a popular spot for quick Mexican food on a budget.
• Boston Shawarma – Located near Northeastern University, this spot serves fresh, flavorful Middle Eastern wraps, salads, and plates. Shawarma sandwiches start at just a few dollars and are perfect for lunch or dinner.
• El Pelón Taquería – Famous for fish tacos and loaded burritos. Many menu items are under $10, making it an affordable choice for hungry students.
• Blunch – This small South End café offers specialty sandwiches, wraps, and bagels. You can create your own meal for less than $8, ideal for a quick and cheap lunch.
• Hong Kong Eatery – Located in Chinatown, this restaurant has a huge menu of rice plates, noodle soups, and Chinese barbecue at low prices. Dishes are hearty and ideal for sharing with friends.

Top Cheap Food Near Boston University and Northeastern

If you are near Boston University or Northeastern, look for these favorite student food spots:

• Totto Ramen – Offers large, flavorful ramen bowls starting at about $13. The hearty servings are perfect for sharing or saving half for later.
• Noodle Street – Choose from Thai, Chinese, and Japanese classics. Many dishes, including fried rice and noodle soups, are under $12 and ideal for takeout or dine-in.
• Uburger – Famous for fresh burgers, crispy fries, and milkshakes. Most meals are under $10, making it a popular choice for a satisfying, affordable bite.

Budget Friendly Food Near Harvard and MIT

In Cambridge, just across the river from downtown Boston, you’ll find a vibrant food scene that caters to student budgets. Here are some top picks:

• Felipe's Taqueria – Known for its rooftop seating, burritos, and tacos. Generous portions and a lively atmosphere make it ideal for group meals. Most major menu items are under $10.
• Pinocchio’s Pizza & Subs – Offers beloved Sicilian-style pizza for a few dollars a slice. The late hours make it a staple for students pulling all-nighters.
• Currito – A fast-casual chain focusing on burritos and bowls. With customizable options and affordable prices, it’s a go-to spot for a filling, healthy meal.

Where to Get Late-Night Food on a Budget

Boston is famous for its late-night study sessions and college nightlife. Many student-friendly restaurants stay open late so you won’t go hungry after hours. Try some of these after-dark favorites:

• South Street Diner – This 24-hour diner in the Leather District has classic breakfasts, burgers, and milkshakes that are both cheap and filling.
• Kelly’s Roast Beef – Open late and offering big sandwiches, seafood plates, and fries. Most options are around $10, great for a post-party meal.
• Rednecks BBQ Lab – Famous for flavorful barbecue and budget-friendly portions. Barbecue plates are perfect for sharing with friends on a late night.

Best Places for Quick, Cheap Lunches in Boston

Sometimes you just need a fast, grab-and-go option between classes or during a busy day. Check out these choices for quick meals:

• Al’s State Street Café – Well-known among students and professionals for its massive hot and cold subs. Subs are affordable and can keep you full for hours.
• Chacarero – Offers unique Chilean sandwiches called chacareros. The mix of breaded chicken, steak, or veggies with green beans, cheese, and spicy sauce is both tasty and affordable.
• Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Café – Noodle bowls and flatbreads priced for student budgets. These dishes will satisfy your noodle cravings without costing a lot.

Tips for Eating Well and Saving Money in Boston

• Check for student discounts – Many Boston restaurants offer special deals with a valid student ID. Always ask before you pay.
• Take advantage of lunch specials – Many spots have lower prices at lunchtime compared to the dinner menu.
• Split meals with friends – Large portions can easily be shared, cutting costs for everyone.
• Explore food trucks – Campus food trucks offer everything from tacos to fusion bowls, often at lower prices than restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cheap Eats for Boston College Students

Where can I find the cheapest food near Boston University?

Some top cheap eats near Boston University include T. Anthony’s Pizzeria, UBurger for burgers and fries, Noodle Street for Asian food, and Anna’s Taqueria. You will find most meals for under $10 in these popular student locations.

Are there late-night food options in Boston for students?

Yes, several diners and eateries stay open late. Popular choices for students are South Street Diner, Pinocchio’s Pizza & Subs in Cambridge, and Kelly’s Roast Beef. Many food trucks near college campuses also serve into the evening.

What are the best affordable vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Boston for students?

Veggie Galaxy in Cambridge offers many vegetarian and vegan meals at student-friendly prices. Clover Food Lab and Whole Heart Provisions also serve plant-based meals under $10-12 in several locations across the city.

Do Boston restaurants offer student discounts?

Many Boston restaurants, coffee shops, and fast-casual spots offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID and ask at the register about deals or discounts for students before you order or pay.

How can I save money on food as a college student in Boston?

Use your student ID to get discounts, check for daily specials, visit food trucks, and share meals with friends. Shopping at local markets and preparing meals a few times a week can also help you stretch your food budget.