The last few week my friends and I challenged ourselves to eat more frugally, considering the current economic situation. As a chef I rarely cook for myself, so I considered it a fun challenge to eat at the most inexpensive restaurants with the best return. This is my list for cheap eats that I hope you enjoy as well:

New York Noodletown
28 Bowery
Get the Shrimp Wonton & Noodle Soup $5

Porchetta
110 East 7th St.
Get the Roast Pork Platter with White Beans and Seasonal Vegetable $13

Kalustyan's
123 Lexington Ave.
Get the Vegetarian Platter $8.95

Joe's Pizza
7 Carmine St.
Get a Good Slice $2.75

Cho Dang Gol
55 West 35th St.
Get the Hangover Soup $12