Hey foodie friends! ✨ If you’re like me, you believe breakfast is the most important meal of the day—but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. New York City is packed with amazing spots where you can grab a tasty, budget-friendly breakfast without sacrificing flavor or experience.
Whether you’re a local looking for new gems or a traveler wanting to eat like one, I’ve got you covered. Here are 5 must-try spots for cheap, delicious breakfast in NYC this month—because great food shouldn’t come with a side of regret!
1. Tompkins Square Bagels (East Village) – The Bagel Deal You Can’t Beat
Why You’ll Love It: Imagine biting into a freshly baked, chewy bagel piled high with cream cheese, eggs, or bacon—all for under $10. Tompkins Square Bagels is a local favorite for a reason. Their everything bagel with scallion cream cheese is chef’s kiss, and their breakfast sandwiches are hearty enough to keep you full till lunch.
Pro Tip: Go early! The line gets long, but it moves fast.
Price Range: 5−9
2. Best Bagel & Coffee (Midtown) – The Classic NYC Breakfast Hack
Why You’ll Love It: If you need a quick, satisfying bite before work or sightseeing, this spot is a game-changer. Their bacon, egg, and cheese on a toasted everything bagel is legendary—and still under $7! Plus, their coffee is strong and cheap (a rare NYC combo).
Pro Tip: Cash only, so come prepared!
Price Range: 4−8
3. Joe’s Steam Rice Roll (Chinatown) – Hidden Gem for Something Different
Why You’ll Love It: If you’re tired of the usual breakfast fare, try these silky, fresh rice rolls stuffed with eggs, pork, or veggies. At just $3.50 per roll, it’s one of the best deals in the city. The texture is so satisfying—soft, slightly chewy, and packed with flavor.
Pro Tip: Get there before 10 AM to avoid the lunch crowd.
Price Range: 3.50−6
4. Los Tacos No. 1 (Chelsea Market & More) – Breakfast Tacos That Hit Different
Why You’ll Love It: Yes, it’s a taco spot—but their breakfast tacos (available till 11 AM) are a must-try. Think fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy potatoes, and your choice of meat (the adobada pork is chef’s kiss) wrapped in a warm corn tortilla. All for under $5 each.
Pro Tip: Add their fiery green salsa for an extra kick!
Price Range: 4−6 per taco
5. Gray’s Papaya (Upper West Side) – The Nostalgic NYC Breakfast Staple
Why You’ll Love It: This iconic hot dog joint also serves up a simple, cheap, and surprisingly delicious breakfast. go full NYC with their Recession Special (hotdog+drink for It’s no-frills, but it’s fast, filling, and oh-so-NYC.
Pro Tip: Perfect for a quick bite before hitting Central Park.
Price Range: 4−6
Final Thoughts
Eating well in NYC doesn’t have to mean spending $20 on avocado toast (unless that’s your thing—no judgment!). These five spots prove that flavor, speed, and affordability can coexist.
Which one are you trying first? Let me know in the comments—or if you have a favorite cheap breakfast spot I missed, shout it out! ️
#NYCEats #BudgetBreakfast #CheapEatsNYC #FoodieOnABudget #TravelTips
Happy eating, friends! ️
