10 budget bites in Raleigh: tacos, pizza, barbecue and more under $25
The articles all explore how to eat well in Raleigh without spending more than $25, highlighting local restaurants, cafes and takeout spots. Reporters visit a range of places, from fast-casual taco shops to nonprofit cafes, looking for satisfying meals or snacks within a set budget.
The articles mention eating at a pay-what-you-can cafe where guests can choose how to cover their meal or even volunteer time. They describe ordering two tacos and a snack at a popular fast-casual restaurant, with some proceeds going to charity. There is an example of picking up eight slices of pizza with a mix of toppings at a new takeout joint. Another article shows shopping at a park market for a picnic, filling a basket with a sandwich, chips and a dessert bar—all under $25.
These stories demonstrate how diners can find value and variety while staying mindful of cost in Raleigh’s diverse food scene.
NO. 1: 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
NO. 2: 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
NO. 3: NC IS HOME TO ONE OF THE TOP CITIES IN THE US FOR ‘BBQ ENTHUSIASTS’, SAYS YELP
The best “smoked meats, signature sauces” can be found in this Triangle city. | Published May 9, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
NO. 4: THE STORY BEHIND THE RALEIGH CAFE THAT EARNED RAVES FROM A NATIONAL FOOD REVIEWER
Never heard of the Raleigh cafe that was on Keith Lee’s food tour through North Carolina? Here’s what makes it so special. | Published May 16, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
NO. 5: 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. 6: 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. 7: HERE’S A TASTE OF GRAB-AND-GO FOOD AT DIX PARK’S GIPSON PLAY PLAZA MARKET
Whether you want something sweet or savory, here’s a look at what you can get at House of Many Porches. | Published July 11, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
NO. 8: I VISITED RALEIGH’S HOT NEW TAKEOUT PIZZA PLACE. A LOOK AT THE MENU & WHAT I GOT
It hasn’t been long since Oakwood Pizza Box started offering its signature pies in a new takeout spot in Raleigh, and it’s already proving to be a popular spot for local pizza lovers — even on a budget. | Published August 15, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
NO. 9: WE WENT TO THE ‘HOTTEST RESTAURANT’ IN AMERICA, HERE IN NC. IS IT WORTH THE HYPE?
The day before I went to Chili’s for lunch, the world found out that Travis Kelce had proposed to Taylor Swift. | Published August 29, 2025 | Read Full Story by Drew Jackson
NO. 10: I VISITED RALEIGH’S NEW ALL-DAY RESTAURANT & MARKET IN NORTH HILLS. WHAT I GOT
The North Hills Innovation District officially opened its very first full-service restaurant — and it’s a good thing it’s an all-day spot, because you’re definitely not going to want to leave. | Published September 12, 2025 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon
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.