11 Cheap Eats in Pennsylvania So Good Locals Swear By Them
Pennsylvania offers some of the most mouthwatering cheap eats that won’t break your wallet. From iconic cheesesteaks to loaded sandwiches, locals have their secret spots where flavor doesn’t come with a high price tag.
Join me as we explore these budget-friendly food treasures that Pennsylvanians can’t stop raving about!
1. Primanti Bros. – Pittsburgh
Anyone visiting Pittsburgh must try the legendary sandwiches at Primanti Bros. What makes them special? Everything comes piled between two slices of Italian bread – meat, melted cheese, tomatoes, coleslaw, and even French fries!
Late-night cravings won’t stand a chance since many locations stay open 24 hours. Locals recommend the Pitts-burger for first-timers.
2. John’s Roast Pork – Philadelphia
Hidden in South Philly sits a sandwich shop that’s been perfecting roast pork since 1930. Juicy, thinly-sliced pork gets loaded onto seeded rolls with sharp provolone and garlicky broccoli rabe.
Lines form early at this cash-only joint that closes by mid-afternoon.
3. DiNic’s – Philadelphia
Inside Reading Terminal Market, DiNic’s serves up what many call the best sandwich in America. Slow-roasted pork shoulder gets a hot bath in its own juices before landing on a crusty roll.
Watching the sandwich assembly is almost as satisfying as eating it. Upgrade yours with sharp provolone and bright green broccoli rabe for the full Philly experience that costs less than $15.
4. Geno’s Steaks – Philadelphia
Glowing neon lights have beckoned hungry visitors to this South Philly corner since 1966. Ordering here is an art form: know what you want before reaching the window and have your cash ready.
Razor-thin ribeye sizzles on the flat-top before getting smothered with cheese. Purists skip the onions and peppers, focusing on the meat’s flavor in this $12 masterpiece that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
5. Pat’s King of Steaks – Philadelphia
Directly across from Geno’s stands the originator of the cheesesteak empire. Pat’s claims to have invented this iconic sandwich back in 1930 when owner Pat Olivieri tossed beef on a grill for his hot dog customers.
Open 24/7, Pat’s serves up no-frills sandwiches under $13. Locals debate whether “Whiz wit” (cheese whiz with onions) or provolone is the authentic choice, but everyone agrees it’s a must-try Philly experience.
6. Reading Terminal Market – Philadelphia
Walking through America’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market feels like a food treasure hunt. Over 80 vendors pack this historic building, offering everything from Pennsylvania Dutch specialties to international cuisine.
Budget-conscious foodies gravitate toward Beiler’s donuts ($1.25 each), Miller’s twisted pretzels, and Dutch eating house platters. Savvy visitors come during weekday mornings to avoid crowds while sampling multiple affordable delights under one roof.
7. Chick’s Deli – Pittsburgh
Unassuming doesn’t begin to describe this cash-only sandwich spot hidden in a residential neighborhood. First-timers often drive past the unmarked storefront before realizing they’ve found Pittsburgh’s best-kept secret.
Massive hoagies packed with quality meats and cheeses cost under $10. Regulars swear by the Italian special loaded with three kinds of meat, provolone, and all the fixings on bread delivered fresh each morning.
8. The Original Waffle Shop – Philadelphia
Morning hunger pangs lead locals to this no-frills breakfast institution where the portions are enormous and prices remain stuck in the past. Golden, crisp-edged waffles arrive topped with fresh fruit or classic butter and syrup.
Coffee comes in bottomless mugs carried by servers who’ve worked here for decades. Arrive before 9am to avoid the weekend rush at this cash-only spot where a complete breakfast rarely exceeds $12.
9. Frank’s Steaks – Philadelphia
Tucked away on a corner in Northeast Philly, Frank’s has perfected the art of the cheesesteak without the tourist crowds. Regulars rave about the perfectly balanced meat-to-roll ratio and the generous portion sizes.
Family-owned since 1976, Frank’s refuses to raise prices like downtown competitors. A fully loaded cheesesteak costs just $9, leaving room in your budget for their hand-cut fries and a fountain drink.
10. Jake’s Sandwich Board – Lancaster
Farm-to-table meets affordability at this Lancaster County gem where locally sourced ingredients transform standard sandwiches into culinary experiences. Amish country influences shine through in specialties like the smoked brisket with apple butter.
Students and farmers alike flock here for lunch specials under $10. Meat lovers should try the Amish-raised pork sandwich topped with homemade coleslaw and a secret sauce that keeps people coming back weekly.
11. Federal Donuts – Philadelphia
Genius struck when someone decided to combine fried chicken and donuts under one roof. Federal Donuts revolutionized Philly’s comfort food scene with this unlikely pairing that somehow makes perfect sense.
Morning visitors snag still-warm fancy donuts for $3.25 each. Lunchtime brings the real steal: a $12 chicken sandwich that rivals any in the city, served on a potato roll with spicy sauce, American cheese, and pickle chips.
