Brisbane might be known for its vibrant restaurant and fine-dining scene, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune to find a great meal. From Fortitude Valley to Paddington to South Brisbane, there are plenty of fantastic eateries near you where you can get a great meal for under $20. Fill your stomach without emptying your bank account with the help of this guide to the best cheap eats in Brisbane.
Banh Mi Factory
Banh mi is a staple of Vietnamese street food, consisting of quality ingredients piled into a fresh-baked baguette, so it’s no wonder it’s become a favourite across the globe. To get your hands on this delicious lunchtime treat, check out Banh Mi Factory, with stores in Zillmere and Newstead. Here, you can pick up a classic banh mi for $9.90 – perfect for students on a tight budget! It’s hard to go past the crispy pork belly roll, but the chicken and vegetarian options are great choices too.
Sendok Garpu
If you’re on the hunt for some delicious Indonesian food, you can find Sendok Garpu on Elizabeth Street, Brisbane City. A classic nasi goreng or mie goreng will set you back just $17.95. Alternatively, try some Indonesian street food like nasi udek ayam kalasan or fried chicken with coconut rice for just $16.95. With a range of plant-based options available, you’re sure to find a tasty and filling meal here even if you have certain dietary restrictions.
Bagel Boys
These bagels are made fresh every day and have been popular with Brisbane locals since doors opened five years ago. With stores in Brisbane City, Milton, University of Queensland (UQ) and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Gardens Point, you should have no trouble finding a Bagel Boys near you. Pick up a bagel with cream cheese for only $6 or, for something more filling, try the Reuben with pastrami, swiss cheese, pickles and cabbage for $11.50.
DannyBoys
If you’re willing to travel to the city’s outer suburbs, DannyBoys is definitely worth the trip. Located in QUT’s Kelvin Grove campus, this hidden gem has been serving up some of the best sandwiches in Brisbane for over a decade. With a huge menu, you’re sure to find something to your liking. The $8.50 bacon and egg roll is a great choice for breakfast. For lunch, try one of the signature sandwiches served on a fresh baguette, the prices for which start at $9.95.
Govindas
If you’re a vegetarian or simply on the hunt for a tasty and nutritious meal, Govindas should be at the top of your list. With locations in Brisbane City and West End, this local institution has been dishing out wholesome vegetarian meals for over 20 years. For just $12, you can get a regular feast meal, which includes rice, a curry of the day, koftas and chutney. If you’re feeling thirsty, add a refreshing ginger and mint lemonade for only $3.
Hai Hai Ramen
If you’re a fan of ramen — and let’s face it, who isn’t? — you can’t go past Hai Hai Ramen in Paddington. Usually, a bowl of ramen here will set you back around $16. But come by on Mondays or Tuesdays between 5pm and 6pm and you can score a bowl for just $10! The tonkotsu ramen is always popular, as is the grilled chicken mazeman. Make sure you get in early to secure your spot though, as Hai Hai doesn’t take reservations and tables fill up fast.
Biang Biang Fresh Noodle
Those looking for cheap eats in Fortitude Valley should check out Biang Biang Fresh Noodle. Previously a Toowong favourite for years, the restaurant recently relocated to a new Fortitude Valley location right on Brunswick Street. With noodles made fresh on-site and with most meals costing less than $15 a plate, it’s clear why this place is considered one of the best-hidden gems in Brisbane. Try the tom yum beef noodle in soup or the original bang bang noodle, $14 each.
Melt Brothers
In the mood for comfort food? Look no further than Melt Brothers in Post Office Square, Brisbane City. This place has taken the humble grilled cheese sandwich to exciting new heights and offers a range of delicious options for less than $10. Try the classic mouse trap for just $7.50, or take on the M.C. cheesy, which includes macaroni and cheese, bacon and BBQ sauce, for just $11.
P’Nut Street Noodles
Offering some of the best cheap eats in South Brisbane in the thriving suburb of South Bank, P’Nut Street Noodles serves up delicious Thai dishes. With most meals priced at under $19, you can treat yourself to a hearty helping of pad thai, cashew nut noodles, laksa soup, poke salad and so much more. When you leave, both your stomach and your wallet are guaranteed to be full.
Remy’s
No list of cheap eats in Brisbane would be complete without Remy’s. This place regularly ranks among the best eateries in Brisbane due to its wide range of tasty, freshly made burgers, all boasting affordable prices. You can get your hands on a cheeseburger for just $12 or a vegetarian burger for only $15. Even better, visit between 5pm and 6pm on Monday-Thursday to get two-for-one burgers.
Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.
