It’s no secret that I love to eat great food. As a self-proclaimed foodie and connoisseur (of sorts, hehe), one of my favourite activities is trying out new places and discovering all the amazing bites that Edmonton has to offer.
Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to have meals out within student budgets.
So, I’m here to share some wonderful cheap eats that you can enjoy on a budget this summer, because great food doesn’t need to break the bank.
Currently my hyper fixation spot, Nhon Hoa has definitely turned my summer into a banh mi summer. These Vietnamese sandwiches are delicious and so satisfying. They include super-fresh ingredients and make the perfect addition to a picnic or evening out.
I highly recommend the regular cold cut or the chicken satay.
Price range: $8-12
Vi Nam is hands down the best Vietnamese food in the city, in my book. This spot makes the list because it’s simply one of my favourite places. It’s slightly more expensive than some of the other options on this list; however, the portion sizes are huge, and I always end up taking home leftovers that I eat for another day or two. The vermicelli bowls with grilled chicken are spectacular. If you’re wanting to spend less, bring a friend and split the vermicelli platter for a great meal (around $10 each).
Price range: $10-25
This hidden gem in Chinatown is a wonderful spot to visit if you’re in the area and looking for a snack or a wonderful box of baked goods to bring to a party (your friends will thank you).
The BBQ pork buns are so fresh and to die for — freshly made and often still warm when they pack them up for you. They also have incredible wintermelon pastries that are unique, and I’ve never seen them anywhere else.
Price range: $0.75-2 (per item)
With four locations, Farrow is a popular Edmonton staple for sandwiches. The ‘Grick Middle’ is the best breakfast sandwich in the city — with tasty tomato jam, bacon, arugula and a perfectly cooked egg. I could basically eat this sandwich any time, any day. It’s just that good.
Price range: $10-12
Steel Wheels is a full-on vibe — it’s a go-to spot for late-night eats (open until 3 a.m.). They have both Korean food (go for the bulgogi) and pizza, as well as tasty dumplings and green onion cakes.
Prince range: $5-15
Originally a chain from Calgary, Kinjo is a great place to eat on a budget with a group. Try the sashimi, sushi rolls or mini ramen and quench your thirst with a mini bubble tea. The service is great, the atmosphere is always lively and the food is good quality.
Price range: $5-20
Dragon Food Tours with the Chinatown Transformation Collaborative (CTC) Society
Technically, this isn’t one specific restaurant, but the food tours offered by CTC Society are so much fun, and they allow you to discover many new spots in one experience. They are affordable, and every time I’ve attended, I’ve left with a full belly.
Also, the mission and goals of this organization are so important — to help revitalize Chinatown as a destination and foster pathways to community, social, and economic resilience. Tours run all through the summer until the end of August. Definitely worth supporting and enjoying some incredible food.
Price range: $10-25