Food & Drink

6 budget bites Raleigh keep the total cost under $25. Here's where to go

The taco shop Little Rey’s from Ford Fry opened in Raleigh Iron Works in 2024. Andrew Thomas Lee

These articles explore affordable meal options in Raleigh. They feature local favorites, chain newcomers and data-driven restaurant picks that let diners eat well for $25 or less.

One article describes trying the charitable, pay-what-you-can meals at A Place at the Table. Another details building a taco lunch with creative fillings and a guest chef menu item at Little Rey. There is data on the best values for large one-topping pizzas in the Triangle. Another piece covers a taste test of Chido Taco’s quesabirria and sides, all under budget. These stories highlight tacos, pizza and healthy bowls as easy ways to dine out without spending much.

NO. 1: NEW TENANTS ANNOUNCED FOR SHOPPING CENTER NEAR RALEIGH’S WEGMANS. WHEN WILL THEY OPEN?

The old Courtney’s restaurant is no more. Here’s what is replacing it. | Published January 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted

A large pepperoni pizza from Big Cheese Pizza & Wings in Raleigh, N.C. By Kaitlin McKeown

NO. 2: HOW MUCH ARE LARGE 1-TOPPING PIZZAS AT 97 TRIANGLE PIZZERIAS? HERE’S THE DATA

We didn’t just get the prices for nearly 100 pizzas, we calculated price per square inch. You’re welcome. | Published February 12, 2025 | Read Full Story by Drew Jackson

Gringo A Go Go is an authentic Mexican restaurant located in downtown Raleigh. By Chyna Blackmon

NO. 3: I TRIED THE BEST TACOS IN THE TRIANGLE (AND FEASTED FOR UNDER $25)

From the mouthwatering tacos to the sweet and savory sides, here’s everything our reporter ate for less than $25 at each spot. | Published May 1, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

Avocado Toast, fruit and, cookie from, A Place at the Table Cafe, a pay-what-you-can restaurant at 300 W. Hargett Street in Raleigh on Wednesday, May 13, 2025. By Robert Willett

NO. 4: I WENT TO THE RALEIGH CAFE THAT TIKTOKER KEITH LEE VISITED. HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR UNDER $25

It’s a place known for its menu and mission. | Published May 15, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

NO. 5: I WENT TO RALEIGH’S FANCIEST FAST-CASUAL TACO SHOP. HERE’S WHAT I GOT FOR $25

How does “market price” guacamole make you feel? | Published June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Drew Jackson

NO. 6: COOK OUT LOOKS TO OPEN SPINOFF RESTAURANT’S FIRST RALEIGH SPOT. HERE’S WHERE

Yet another taco chain may be entering the Raleigh market for the first time. | Published September 10, 2025 | Read Full Story by Renee Umsted

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.