Top Affordable Lunches You Can Find in All 50 States
Exploring the diverse culinary landscape of the United States can be an adventure, especially when you’re on a budget. From the coasts of California to the vibrant streets of New York, each state offers its unique flavors and hidden gems. This guide will take you on a delicious journey across all 50 states, highlighting affordable lunch options that promise both taste and value. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler passing through, these meals are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. Get ready to discover some of the best lunch deals in America.
1. Alabama’s BBQ Pork Sandwich
Alabama offers a BBQ pork sandwich that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Picture this: tender, smoky pork generously slathered in tangy sauce.
The sandwich is often served with a side of creamy coleslaw, adding a refreshing crunch that complements the savory meat. Whether you’re at a local diner or a roadside stand, this dish captures the essence of Southern hospitality.
Its roots run deep in Alabama’s culinary history, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the state.
2. Alaska’s Salmon Wrap
In Alaska, the salmon wrap is a testament to the state’s rich seafood bounty. Freshly caught salmon is the star, nestled in a wrap with crisp greens and colorful veggies.
This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also offers a taste of Alaska’s pristine nature. The wrap is light yet fulfilling, perfect for a midday meal.
Alaskans take pride in their seafood, and this wrap embodies their commitment to fresh, quality ingredients.
3. Arizona’s Sonoran Hot Dog
Arizona brings a Southwestern twist to the classic hot dog with the Sonoran variation. Wrapped in bacon and loaded with beans, onions, and jalapeños, it’s a flavor explosion in every bite.
The bun is soft, holding its delicious contents together with ease. This hot dog is as colorful as the Arizona sunsets, making it a feast for the eyes and the stomach.
It’s a staple at street markets and food trucks, offering a taste of Arizona’s vibrant food culture.
4. Arkansas’s Fried Catfish Plate
Arkansas is known for its fried catfish, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The fish is perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden crisp, offering a satisfying crunch.
Paired with traditional sides like hush puppies and coleslaw, it’s a meal that embodies comfort and Southern charm. Each bite is a reminder of Arkansas’s rich fishing heritage.
This dish is a staple in local diners, offering a hearty lunch for those craving a taste of the South’s culinary traditions.
5. California’s Avocado Toast
California has elevated the humble avocado toast to an art form. Ripe avocados are mashed and spread over crusty artisan bread, adorned with cherry tomatoes and microgreens.
Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy textures, capturing the essence of California’s fresh and vibrant produce. This dish is a staple in cafes, often enjoyed by health-conscious locals.
Whether paired with a smoothie or a coffee, it’s the perfect light lunch for a sunny California day.
6. Colorado’s Green Chili Burrito
Colorado’s green chili burrito is a hearty delight that warms the soul. Filled with spicy green chili, tender pork, beans, and cheese, it’s a comforting blend of flavors.
The burrito is often smothered in extra green chili sauce, making it a messy but delightful meal. It’s a favorite in taco joints and family-owned restaurants across Colorado.
This dish reflects the state’s love for bold, hearty flavors and is perfect for those craving a taste of the Southwest.
7. Connecticut’s Lobster Roll
In Connecticut, the lobster roll is a seaside classic that never disappoints. Succulent lobster meat is piled high in a buttery, toasted bun, offering a taste of the ocean in every bite.
The simplicity of this dish lets the freshness of the lobster shine, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Served with a side of chips, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day by the water.
Whether enjoyed at a beachside shack or a classy restaurant, it’s a must-try for anyone visiting Connecticut.
8. Delaware’s Scrapple Sandwich
Delaware’s scrapple sandwich is a breakfast favorite that’s hearty and satisfying. Scrapple, a savory pork product, is cooked to crispy perfection and served between slices of soft bread.
Often enjoyed with eggs or cheese, it’s a beloved dish that brings comfort to many. The crispy edges and tender inside make it a textural delight.
For those visiting Delaware, this sandwich offers a unique taste of the state’s culinary heritage, perfect for a morning meal shared with locals.
9. Florida’s Cuban Sandwich
Florida’s Cuban sandwich is a flavorful offering that connects the state to its rich Cuban heritage. Layers of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles are pressed within a crispy bread.
Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavors that tell a story of cultural fusion. Often served with plantain chips or a side salad, it’s a popular choice in cafes and eateries.
This sandwich embodies the vibrant energy of Florida’s culinary scene, making it a delicious choice for lunch.
10. Georgia’s Peach Salad
Georgia’s peach salad is a celebration of the state’s most famous fruit. Juicy peaches are paired with fresh arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy almonds.
This vibrant salad offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a light lunch. The peaches add a touch of Southern sweetness, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Whether enjoyed on a sunny porch or in a cozy café, it’s a taste of Georgia’s natural bounty.
11. Hawaii’s Poke Bowl
Hawaii’s poke bowl is a fresh and flavorful dish that captures the essence of island life. Fresh tuna, marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, is complemented by seaweed and sticky rice.
Each bite is a taste of the ocean, offering a balance of savory and umami flavors. It’s a popular choice among locals and tourists alike, perfect for a beachside meal.
This dish reflects Hawaii’s love for fresh, simple ingredients and is a must-try for anyone visiting the islands.
12. Idaho’s Potato Soup
Idaho’s potato soup is a hearty comfort food that warms you from the inside out. Made with creamy potatoes, bacon bits, and fresh chives, it’s a rich, savory delight.
This soup is a favorite among locals, especially during the chilly months when a warm bowl is just what you need. It’s often served with crusty bread, making for a satisfying meal.
The dish celebrates Idaho’s famous potatoes, offering a taste of home-style cooking that’s both nourishing and delicious.
13. Illinois’s Deep Dish Pizza
Illinois, particularly Chicago, is famous for its deep-dish pizza that redefines the pizza experience. With a buttery crust, layers of cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, each slice is a meal on its own.
It’s a cheesy masterpiece that invites you to savor each hearty bite. Often topped with a variety of meats and veggies, it’s a customizable delight.
Enjoying a slice in a local pizzeria offers a true taste of Chicago’s culinary tradition, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers.
14. Indiana’s Breaded Pork Tenderloin
Indiana’s breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is a beloved staple that’s as big in flavor as it is in size. The pork is pounded thin, breaded, and fried to a golden crisp.
Served on a soft bun with lettuce, tomato, and pickles, it’s a satisfying meal that fills you up. The combination of the crispy exterior and tender meat makes it a local favorite.
Whether enjoyed in a diner or at a local festival, it’s a taste of Indiana’s culinary pride.
15. Iowa’s Maid-Rite Sandwich
Iowa’s Maid-Rite sandwich is a unique take on the classic hamburger. Instead of a patty, seasoned ground beef is crumbled and piled onto a soft bun.
The simplicity of the ingredients lets the flavor of the beef shine through, offering a taste of home-cooked comfort. Often topped with mustard and pickles, it’s a local favorite.
This sandwich has been an Iowa tradition for decades, enjoyed in diners across the state by generations of families.
16. Kansas’s Burnt Ends
Kansas is known for its BBQ, and burnt ends are the crown jewel. These flavorful tidbits are the crispy, smoky ends of a beef brisket, packed with rich, savory goodness.
Often served with BBQ sauce and a side of pickles, they’re a taste explosion that’s hard to resist. Burnt ends are a must-try for anyone visiting Kansas, offering a true taste of the state’s BBQ heritage.
Enjoying them in a local BBQ joint is an experience that captures the essence of Kansas’s culinary culture.
17. Kentucky’s Hot Brown
Kentucky’s Hot Brown is a decadent open-faced sandwich that originated in the 1920s. It features turkey and bacon, smothered in a creamy Mornay sauce, all broiled to perfection.
This rich dish is a comforting choice that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Often enjoyed as a hearty lunch or dinner, it reflects Kentucky’s love for indulgent flavors.
Whether enjoyed in a historic hotel or a local café, the Hot Brown is a delicious piece of Kentucky tradition.
18. Louisiana’s Po’ Boy
Louisiana’s po’ boy is a sandwich that’s rich in flavor and history. Filled with crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, and tomatoes, it’s served in a soft baguette that holds everything together.
The po’ boy is a culinary symbol of New Orleans, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant food scene. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and Cajun spices.
Whether enjoyed during Mardi Gras or a casual lunch break, the po’ boy is a must-try for anyone visiting Louisiana.
19. Maine’s Lobster Roll
Maine’s lobster roll is a seafood delight that draws visitors from near and far. Freshly caught lobster meat is generously piled into a buttery roll, offering a taste of the ocean’s bounty.
The simplicity of the dish lets the lobster’s natural sweetness shine, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. Served with chips or coleslaw, it’s a perfect summer treat.
Whether enjoyed at a seaside shack or a fine dining restaurant, a lobster roll in Maine is an unforgettable experience.
20. Maryland’s Crab Cake
Maryland’s crab cake is a culinary treasure that showcases the state’s love for seafood. Made with fresh crab meat, it’s seasoned and cooked to a golden crisp.
Each bite offers a burst of flavors from the ocean, paired perfectly with a squeeze of lemon. Crab cakes are a staple in Maryland’s coastal eateries, offering a taste of the Chesapeake Bay.
Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, they’re a must-try for anyone visiting Maryland.
21. Massachusetts’s Clam Chowder
Massachusetts’s clam chowder is a creamy soup that warms your soul with every spoonful. Filled with tender clams, potatoes, and a hint of bacon, it’s a comforting blend of flavors.
The chowder is often served with oyster crackers, adding a delightful crunch to the creamy texture. It’s a favorite in seaside taverns, offering a taste of New England’s coastal charm.
Enjoying a bowl while overlooking the ocean is a quintessential Massachusetts experience.
22. Michigan’s Coney Dog
Michigan’s Coney dog is a hot dog with a twist, bringing chili, onions, and mustard into the mix. This flavorful combination is served on a soft bun, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite.
It’s a staple in Detroit’s diners, providing a hearty lunch that captures the city’s vibrant food culture. The Coney dog is a must-try for anyone visiting Michigan, offering a taste of local tradition.
Whether enjoyed alone or with a side of fries, it’s a delicious choice that leaves you wanting more.
23. Minnesota’s Juicy Lucy
Minnesota’s Juicy Lucy is a burger innovation that surprises with every bite. This unique creation features molten cheese hidden inside the patty, offering a gooey, cheesy surprise.
The burger is grilled to perfection, with each bite releasing a burst of savory flavors. It’s a favorite in local pubs, providing a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.
The Juicy Lucy is a must-try for anyone visiting Minnesota, offering a taste of culinary creativity and comfort.
24. Mississippi’s Catfish Po’ Boy
Mississippi’s catfish po’ boy is a Southern classic that brings comfort and flavor to the table. Fried catfish is the star of this sandwich, nestled in a soft baguette with lettuce and tomatoes.
The crispy fish paired with fresh veggies creates a delightful contrast that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s a beloved dish in Mississippi’s local eateries, often enjoyed with a side of coleslaw.
The catfish po’ boy captures the essence of Southern hospitality and is a must-try for visitors.
25. Missouri’s Toasted Ravioli
Missouri’s toasted ravioli is a crispy, cheesy delight that’s perfect for sharing. These breaded and fried ravioli are filled with cheese and meat, offering a warm, savory bite.
Served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, it’s a favorite appetizer among locals and visitors alike. This dish captures the Italian-American culinary fusion that St. Louis is known for.
Toasted ravioli is a must-try for anyone exploring Missouri’s food scene, offering a unique twist on a classic pasta dish.
26. Montana’s Bison Burger
Montana’s bison burger is a hearty meal that reflects the state’s rugged landscape. The bison meat is lean yet flavorful, offering a rich taste that’s distinct from traditional beef.
Topped with melted cheese and fresh lettuce, it’s a satisfying burger that fills you up without weighing you down. Often enjoyed in rustic lodges or cozy diners, it’s a taste of Montana’s wild side.
The bison burger is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the state’s culinary adventure.
27. Nebraska’s Runza
Nebraska’s Runza is a unique culinary creation that’s both comforting and delicious. This sandwich features seasoned beef and cabbage, all wrapped in a soft bread pocket.
The Runza is a hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch, offering a taste of Midwestern comfort food. Originating from German-Russian immigrants, it’s a beloved dish that tells a story of cultural heritage.
Whether enjoyed in a local diner or at a family gathering, the Runza is a Nebraska tradition worth tasting.
28. Nevada’s Shrimp Cocktail
Nevada’s shrimp cocktail is a classic that’s as much a part of Las Vegas as the bright lights themselves. Fresh shrimp are served chilled, accompanied by a zesty cocktail sauce.
This dish is a refreshing break from the rich flavors of the casino buffets, offering a taste of the ocean in the desert. It’s a popular choice among visitors looking for a light appetizer.
The shrimp cocktail is a must-try for anyone exploring Nevada’s culinary offerings, providing a taste of Vegas’s vibrant food scene.
29. New Hampshire’s Apple Cider Donuts
New Hampshire’s apple cider donuts are a sweet treat that captures the essence of fall. These donuts are made with fresh apple cider, offering a taste of the orchard in every bite.
Dusted with cinnamon sugar, they’re a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors. Enjoying these donuts in a local bakery or an apple orchard is a quintessential New Hampshire experience.
Whether paired with a cup of hot cider or enjoyed on their own, these donuts are a taste of autumnal bliss.
30. New Jersey’s Pork Roll
New Jersey’s pork roll sandwich is a breakfast classic that starts the day with a satisfying kick. The pork roll, also known as Taylor ham, is cooked to crispy perfection and paired with egg and cheese.
Served on a soft roll, this sandwich is a beloved part of the state’s breakfast culture. The savory flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite among locals.
Whether enjoyed in a diner or at home, the pork roll sandwich is a must-try for anyone visiting New Jersey.
31. New Mexico’s Green Chili Cheeseburger
New Mexico’s green chili cheeseburger is a spicy delight that brings heat and flavor to the table. The burger is topped with melted cheese and a generous helping of spicy green chili.
Each bite is a taste of the Southwest, offering a bold combination of savory and spicy flavors. It’s a popular choice in local diners and burger joints, reflecting New Mexico’s love for green chili.
The green chili cheeseburger is a must-try for anyone exploring the state’s vibrant food culture.
32. New York’s Bagel with Lox
New York’s bagel with lox is a breakfast staple that’s as iconic as the city itself. A fresh bagel is generously spread with cream cheese and topped with silky slices of lox.
Capers and onions add a tangy crunch, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This dish is a favorite in delis across the city, offering a taste of New York’s diverse culinary scene.
Whether enjoyed on a busy morning or a leisurely brunch, it’s a quintessential New York experience.
33. North Carolina’s Pulled Pork Sandwich
North Carolina’s pulled pork sandwich is a BBQ classic that’s rich in flavor and tradition. Tender, smoky pork is paired with tangy coleslaw, all served on a soft bun.
The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal that’s hard to resist. It’s a staple in BBQ joints across the state, offering a taste of authentic Southern BBQ.
The pulled pork sandwich is a must-try for anyone visiting North Carolina, providing a delicious taste of the state’s culinary heritage.
34. North Dakota’s Knoephla Soup
North Dakota’s knoephla soup is a comforting blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. This creamy soup is filled with dumplings, potatoes, and vegetables, offering a taste of home-cooked goodness.
The dumplings are tender and flavorful, making it a hearty meal perfect for cold winter days. Knoephla soup reflects North Dakota’s German-Russian heritage, providing a taste of tradition and comfort.
Enjoying a bowl in a local eatery or at a family gathering is a must for anyone visiting the state.
35. Ohio’s Skyline Chili
Ohio’s Skyline chili is a unique take on the classic dish, served over spaghetti and topped with a mountain of shredded cheese. This Cincinnati favorite offers a distinctive blend of spices that sets it apart.
The chili is rich and hearty, providing a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Enjoying a bowl in a local diner is a must for anyone visiting Ohio, offering a taste of the state’s beloved food tradition.
The combination of flavors creates a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.
36. Oklahoma’s Chicken Fried Steak
Oklahoma’s chicken fried steak is a Southern classic that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The steak is pounded thin, breaded, and fried to a crispy perfection, then smothered in creamy gravy.
This dish is a favorite among locals, offering a hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of crispy exterior and tender meat makes it a satisfying choice.
Whether enjoyed in a diner or at a family gathering, chicken fried steak is a taste of Oklahoma’s culinary heritage.
37. Oregon’s Voodoo Doughnut
Oregon’s Voodoo Doughnut is a playful treat that brings a smile with every bite. These doughnuts come in a variety of creative flavors and toppings, from cereal to bacon.
Each doughnut is a work of art, offering a unique taste experience that’s both fun and delicious. Voodoo Doughnut is a must-visit for anyone in Portland, capturing the city’s quirky and adventurous spirit.
Enjoying a doughnut in this lively bakery is an experience that’s sure to delight both locals and tourists alike.
38. Pennsylvania’s Philly Cheesesteak
Pennsylvania’s Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that’s synonymous with the city of Philadelphia. Thinly sliced beef is topped with melted cheese and onions, all tucked into a soft roll.
The flavors meld together to create a savory delight that’s hard to resist. Enjoying a cheesesteak in a local market offers a true taste of Philadelphia’s vibrant food culture.
It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Pennsylvania, providing a delicious bite of culinary tradition.
39. Rhode Island’s Clam Cakes
Rhode Island’s clam cakes are a seaside treat that captures the essence of the state’s coastal charm. These golden fritters are filled with tender clams, offering a taste of the ocean in each bite.
Enjoyed with a side of tartar sauce, they’re a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Clam cakes are a must-try for anyone visiting Rhode Island, offering a taste of New England’s culinary heritage.
Whether enjoyed at a beachside shack or a family gathering, they’re a delicious reminder of the ocean’s bounty.
40. South Carolina’s Shrimp and Grits
South Carolina’s shrimp and grits is a Southern classic that’s both comforting and flavorful. Juicy shrimp are served over creamy grits, topped with a savory sauce that ties everything together.
This dish is a staple in Charleston’s culinary scene, offering a taste of Southern hospitality and charm. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Shrimp and grits are a must-try for anyone visiting South Carolina, providing a delicious taste of the state’s food tradition.
41. South Dakota’s Chislic
South Dakota’s chislic is a beloved local dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends. Cubes of seasoned meat, usually beef or lamb, are deep-fried to create a savory, tender bite.
Served with garlic bread and pickles, it’s a satisfying snack that’s popular in bars and gatherings. Chislic reflects South Dakota’s love for hearty, flavorful foods, providing a taste of local tradition.
Enjoying chislic in a cozy bar is a must for anyone visiting the state, offering a taste of friendly Midwestern hospitality.
42. Tennessee’s Hot Chicken
Tennessee’s hot chicken is a spicy delight that brings the heat with every bite. The chicken is marinated in a spicy blend, fried to crispy perfection, and served with pickles and bread.
Each bite is a fiery explosion of flavors, offering a taste of Nashville’s vibrant food scene. Hot chicken is a must-try for anyone visiting Tennessee, providing a delicious experience that’s both bold and flavorful.
Enjoying hot chicken in a local diner is an experience that captures the essence of Nashville’s culinary adventure.
43. Texas’s Brisket Tacos
Texas’s brisket tacos are a flavorful fusion of Tex-Mex and BBQ that delights the senses. Tender, smoky brisket is nestled in soft tortillas, topped with fresh salsa and a squeeze of lime.
Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors, capturing the essence of Texas’s diverse culinary landscape. These tacos are a must-try for anyone exploring Texas, offering a taste of the state’s love for bold, hearty flavors.
Enjoying them in a lively taqueria is an experience that immerses you in Texas’s vibrant food culture.
44. Utah’s Fry Sauce Burger
Utah’s fry sauce burger is a local favorite that adds a unique twist to the classic burger. The secret is in the fry sauce, a tangy blend of ketchup and mayonnaise that adds a creamy kick.
The burger is juicy and flavorful, making it a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner. Often enjoyed in diners with stunning views of Utah’s red rock landscapes, it’s a taste of local tradition.
The fry sauce burger is a must-try for anyone visiting Utah, offering a delicious take on a classic dish.
45. Vermont’s Maple Creemee
Vermont’s maple creemee is a sweet treat that captures the essence of the state’s famous maple syrup. This soft-serve ice cream is infused with pure maple syrup, offering a rich, creamy delight.
Each lick is a taste of Vermont’s natural sweetness, providing a refreshing break from the summer heat. Enjoying a maple creemee at a local dairy stand is a must for anyone visiting Vermont, offering a taste of the state’s culinary heritage.
It’s a delicious reminder of the state’s love for maple syrup and simple pleasures.
46. Virginia’s Peanut Soup
Virginia’s peanut soup is a creamy, savory dish that offers a taste of Southern hospitality. Made with rich peanut butter and spices, it’s a comforting blend of flavors that’s both unique and delicious.
The soup is often garnished with a sprinkle of peanuts, adding a delightful crunch to the creamy texture. Enjoying a bowl in a colonial-style dining room offers a taste of Virginia’s historical culinary traditions.
Peanut soup is a must-try for anyone visiting the state, providing a delicious experience that’s both hearty and satisfying.
47. Washington’s Smoked Salmon Chowder
Washington’s smoked salmon chowder is a flavorful soup that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Smoked salmon is paired with potatoes and cream, creating a rich, savory blend.
Each spoonful offers a taste of the ocean, with the smoky salmon adding depth to the flavors. It’s a popular choice in Seattle’s cafés, providing a comforting meal that’s perfect for a rainy day.
The smoked salmon chowder is a must-try for anyone visiting Washington, offering a taste of the state’s love for fresh seafood.
48. West Virginia’s Pepperoni Roll
West Virginia’s pepperoni roll is a savory snack that’s as comforting as it is delicious. These rolls are filled with spicy pepperoni and melted cheese, creating a warm, gooey delight.
Perfect for on-the-go snacking, they’re a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The pepperoni roll is a must-try for anyone visiting West Virginia, offering a taste of the state’s culinary creativity.
Enjoying one in a local bakery is an experience that captures the essence of West Virginia’s friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
49. Wisconsin’s Cheese Curds
Wisconsin’s cheese curds are a cheesy delight that brings joy with every bite. These bite-sized curds are breaded and fried to a golden crisp, offering a savory, gooey experience.
Served with a side of ranch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends over a cold beer. Cheese curds are a must-try for anyone visiting Wisconsin, providing a taste of the state’s love for all things cheesy.
Enjoying them in a lively pub is an experience that captures the essence of Wisconsin’s hearty culinary culture.
50. Wyoming’s Bison Chili
Wyoming’s bison chili is a hearty dish that reflects the state’s rugged wilderness. Lean bison meat is cooked with beans and spices, creating a rich, flavorful chili.
Each bowl offers a taste of the wild, with the bison adding a distinct depth to the flavors. It’s a popular choice in lodges and diners, providing a comforting meal that warms you up after a day of exploring.
The bison chili is a must-try for anyone visiting Wyoming, offering a taste of the state’s adventurous spirit.