Cheap Eats in Boston!
Semester in the City is more than just an internship, it is an experience that allows students to explore a career in the social sector, as well as get a taste of living in Boston! SITC provides numerous advantages and is full of opportunities both within and outside the internship.
In this blog series, we will be exploring different ways to experience city life and all that Boston has to offer while remaining on a budget.
Living in the city means there is a wide variety of delicious foods all around you. For those interested in taking advantage of all the delectable meals Boston has to offer, the key is knowing where to go. From tacos to bagels, clam chowder to donuts— Here are some filling, mouth-watering food finds around Boston that do not break the bank.
Varied locations
Price Range: $3-$10
With three convenient locations, Allston, Cleveland Circle, and next to Northeastern University’s campus, Amelia’s Taqueria is widely beloved. The original Amelia’s, in Allston, is minutes away from where Semester in the City students reside and a necessary stop. Some favorites include their quesadillas, plantains and build your own tortas.
Varied locations
Price Range: $3.50-$8.50
There is no food more comforting than a grilled cheese, and Roxy’s specialty grilled cheese is the best around. It is hard to imagine now with the surplus of food trucks in the area, but thanks to the determination of their founder and owner, James DiSabatino, Roxy’s was the first food truck to be allowed to park on a city street. Roxy’s is best known for their grilled cheeses, burgers and double fried chicken sandwich.
VEGANS, take note: Roxy’s also has multiple delicious vegan options.
134 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113
Price Range: $3-$8
Your search for a sweet treat is over. This hidden gem in the North End has delicious cannolis and pastries without the crowds of the other bakery spots in the area. If you are looking to eat like a local, this is your spot.
4. Ned Devine’s
Faneuil Hall
Looking for some hearty, flavorful, old-fashioned “chowda”? Ned Devine’s clam chowder is award-winning and a Boston classic. The lively Irish pub is located in historic Faneuil Hall and offers a full menu, as well as live music on the weekends.
421 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 02446
Price Range: $2-$11
Kupel’s Bakery has been serving Boston’s hungriest bagel enthusiasts since 1978. This kosher bakery is located in the heart of Brookline Village and has a unique selection of cream cheese and bagels. Kupel’s Bakery is known for their breakfast sandwiches that are all named after locations around the city! Before you venture to Kupel’s, here are some pro-tips to make you one of the locals:
Pro-tip #1: It’s pronounced “couples”.
Pro-tip #2: Bring your student ID for a 10% discount on your purchase!
Varied locations
Price range: $7-$10
What started out as a simple food truck in Medford, MA has turned into so much more. This popular lunch spot is perfect if you are looking for a cheap way to enjoy some halal grub. Check their website for daily updates on where food trucks and pop-up locations are. Chicken and Rice Guys also has a permanent brick and mortar takeout joint in downtown Boston.
Varied locations
Price range: $3-$5
This popular donut shop lives up to the hype with fresh donuts made from scratch daily. Try a Boston cream for $4, or any of their original donuts for $3 a pop. Feeling adventurous? Try their premium Brown Butter Hazelnut Crunch or their Sea Salted Bourbon Caramel donut!
8. Bon Me
Varied locations
Prices range: $7-$11
Bon Me is known for their unique twists on traditional Asian-inspired dishes.
What started out as a popular food truck has now expanded into several brick-and-mortar stores all over Boston. Craft your own bowl, or try one of their chef-crafted dishes like the “K-Town Throwdown”. There is something for everyone at Bon Me, with plenty of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.
1024 Commonwealth Avenue A, Brookline, MA 02446
Price range: $7-$10
Do you love noodles? Come to Love Art Udon and customize your own Japanese noodle bowl! This stylish restaurant also specializes in tempura.
If you come between 9:30-10pm, you’ll get dibs on their late night menu, which includes $5 to-go udon bowls, $2 drinks, and $1 tempura.
10. Food For All
Available on App Store and Google Play
Prices range: $3-$8
If you’re looking for a cheap meal near the end of lunch or around dinnertime, download the app Food For All. The app encourages restaurants who have more food than they can sell to offer some of their meals at half price. More than 130 restaurants in Boston participate in this innovative venture that fights against food waste and global warming!