Flavors of NoMad: Cheap Eats in NoMad NYC – Where to Eat Well in the Heart of Manhattan
NoMad is one of Manhattan’s most vibrant districts, where cheap eats blend seamlessly with New York City’s fine cuisine. According to NYC Tourism, this area boasts over 120 restaurants with menus under $20, outperforming neighborhoods like East Village and Williamsburg in terms of value for money.
If you’re staying at the 31 Street Broadway Hotel, you’re right in the middle of the action—just steps away from budget-friendly restaurants offering rich flavors, authentic recipes, and unbeatable prices.
This is your go-to NoMad NYC food guide for discovering cheap eats, smart dining hacks, and hidden gems that won’t hurt your wallet.
How Did We Select These Cheap Eats in NoMad NYC?
To ensure this guide is the most reliable for travelers, we selected restaurants based on:
- ✅ Best affordable food near 31 Street Broadway Hotel
- ✅ Google, Yelp, and Eater NY reviews
- ✅ Walking distance from the hotel
- ✅ Budget restaurants in NoMad Manhattan featured in Zagat, Bib Gourmand, and local chef interviews
🍞 Budget Breakfast in NoMad NYC: Stylish Cafés and Bakeries
1. Black Seed Bagels – Best Bagels in NoMad (Cheap and Iconic)
📍 Address: 176 8th Ave (at W 19th St)
💰 Price: $6–$12
⏰ Hours: 6:30 AM – 3 PM
Website
Why visit:
- Montreal-style bagels: 48-hour fermentation, boiled in honey water
- “Everything Bagel” with smoked salmon — ranked #3 in NYC by Time Out
- Happy Hour combo: coffee + bagel = $5.50 before 9 AM
Pro tip: Visit before 8 AM weekdays for no lines. Ask for herb schmear. Try the 6-for-$16.50 bagel bundle.
2. Daily Provisions – Paris-Level Croissants on a Budget
📍 Address: 103 E 19th St
💰 Price: $5–$10
⏰ Hours: 7 AM – 5 PM
Website
Why it stands out:
- Croissants laminated three times daily with Vermont cultured butter
- Ham & Cheese croissant: top-rated by The Infatuation & New York Magazine
- Naturally leavened sourdough baked fresh
What to order:
- Classic butter croissant ($4.50)
- Almond croissant + cold brew to go
- Best hour: 7:30–8:30 AM
🍽️ Budget Restaurants in NoMad Manhattan: Healthy & Quick Lunches
1. Taïm – Authentic Falafel Under $15
📍 Address: 222 Waverly Pl
💰 Price: $9–$14
⏰ Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM
Website
Why it’s a must:
- Falafel fried in peanut oil at 180°C = crispy outside, fluffy inside
- Try all 3: classic, harissa-spiced, and parsley-mint “green”
- Sabich wrap: eggplant, hard-boiled egg, amba mango sauce
Deals:
- Falafel platter + 2 sides = $12.50
- Unlimited sauces: tahini, zhug, garlic cream
Insider tip: Say “extra crispy” when ordering.
2. PLANTA Queen – Vegan Restaurants in NoMad on a Budget
📍 Address: 15 W 27th St
💰 Price: $15–$25
⏰ Hours: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
Website
What to try:
- Bang Bang Broccoli: wok-seared in cashew chili sauce
- Spicy Tuna Roll (plant-based): heirloom tomato & beet “tuna”
- Happy Hour ceviche: heart of palm ($8)
Pro tips:
- Tuesday & Wednesday = fewer crowds
- Book 3 days in advance for dinner
- Try the Dragon Roll — top value at $18
🍗 Cheap Dinner Near Madison Square Park: Global Flavors
1. Hill Country Barbecue – Best BBQ Near Madison Square Park
📍 Address: 30 W 26th St
💰 Price: $20–$35
⏰ Hours: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Website
Why it stands out:
- Smoked brisket: 14 hours, oak/cherry wood blend
- Moist brisket melts in your mouth; St. Louis ribs with spicy-sweet glaze
Money-saving tips:
- Wednesdays: unlimited ribs = $25
- Happy Hour: $5 craft beers, $6 sliders
- Ask for free meat samples by weight
Bonus: Live country music every Friday (7–10 PM) — reserve early!
💡 Save Even More: Apps and Travel Hacks
Best Tools for Budget Travelers in NoMad
- Too Good To Go: luxury leftovers from top restaurants (like Eataly, Daily Provisions) starting at $4.99
- Seated: 30% off meals + earn Amazon credit
Local tip: Avoid overpriced dining in Times Square — stick to NoMad’s authentic, budget-friendly scene.
📋 FAQs: Cheap Eats NoMad NYC
Where can I find cheap vegan restaurants in NoMad?
- PLANTA Queen offers 100% plant-based menus, with Happy Hour dishes under $10.
What’s the best bagel in NoMad under $10?
- Black Seed Bagels: Everything Bagel with smoked salmon or schmear = top flavor + value.
Are there happy hour deals in NoMad?
- Hill Country Barbecue and PLANTA Queen both offer budget-friendly Happy Hour specials.
🏆 Conclusion: NoMad is NYC’s Ultimate Cheap Eats Neighborhood
With 120+ affordable restaurants, chef-backed quality, and a central location, NoMad is perfect for food-loving travelers. Whether you crave falafel, vegan sushi, or southern BBQ, this guide proves you can eat well under $20 — without compromise.
🛏️ Book your stay at 31 Street Broadway Hotel and explore it all on foot.
Questions or foodie tips? Leave a comment — we’d love to hear from you!