Where to Eat in Daytona on a Budget

If you're visiting Daytona Beach and trying to make your dollars stretch without sacrificing flavor, you're in luck. Daytona Beach isn’t just about sun, sand, and speed—it’s also home to a wealth of budget-friendly restaurants that serve up seriously tasty eats. Whether you're a college student, family traveler, digital nomad, or just looking to keep your food expenses low, this guide will show you where to eat in Daytona on a budget—with all meals priced under $15.

Let’s break it down with locally loved spots, breakfast bargains, lunch deals, and dinner finds—while highlighting hidden gems that are big on taste and easy on your wallet.

1. Local Diners & Classic Cafés ($)

Where Daytona Locals Go for Hearty Meals and Small Checks

One of the best ways to eat well and affordably in Daytona Beach is to head to one of the city’s classic diners or family-run cafés. These places are perfect for enjoying large portions at a fraction of the price you'd pay at chain restaurants.

Steve’s Famous Diner is a long-time local favorite offering everything from fluffy pancakes to gyros and meatloaf dinners—all in the $6–$12 range. Their breakfast combos are especially popular, giving you eggs, home fries, toast, and bacon for under $9.

Just off U.S. Highway 1, you’ll find The Cracked Egg Diner, where locals line up for their famous sweet cream pancakes and corned beef hash. A hearty breakfast here runs under $10 and will keep you full till dinner.

If you’re craving Cuban flavors, La Abuela’s Kitchen in South Daytona serves authentic Cuban sandwiches, plantains, and hearty rice plates, most under $13.

These cozy spots aren’t just affordable—they’re welcoming, full of character, and provide a true taste of the local Daytona Beach scene.

2. Best Lunch Deals in Daytona Beach

Where You Can Grab a Delicious Midday Meal Without Breaking the Bank

Lunchtime in Daytona doesn’t have to mean fast food. Several eateries around town offer lunch specials that keep both your stomach and your wallet happy.

Start with Caribbean Jack’s, a waterfront restaurant that features a daily lunch special for around $9. Their pulled pork sliders and island-inspired rice bowls offer flavor and freshness with a tropical twist. Bonus: live music often accompanies your meal.

Another solid choice is Tia Cori’s Tacos, located on Beach Street. This local gem offers some of the best street-style Mexican food in Daytona Beach. Tacos are just $2.50 each, and combo platters with rice and beans come in under $10.

Zappi’s Italian Garden, just minutes from the beach, offers weekday lunch specials like baked ziti, meatball subs, or personal pizzas for $9–$11. It's a great way to enjoy quality Italian fare without the dinner prices.

Many local eateries around Daytona Beach run “blue plate specials” between 11 am and 3 pm, so it’s smart to check daily menus and save even more.

3. Budget-Friendly Dinner Spots

Where to Wind Down the Day with Flavor Without Overspending

Dinner in Daytona Beach doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The city is packed with casual restaurants and food joints where you can eat well on a budget.

Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club, located right on the beach, offers nightly specials including burgers, tacos, and fried fish baskets—all around $12–$15. Plus, you get beachfront dining included in the price.

Over on Seabreeze Boulevard, Zen Bistro is a hidden oasis offering authentic Thai cuisine. Many dishes, including Pad Thai and green curry, are under $13, and the cozy ambiance is unbeatable.

For something more comforting, head to Stavro’s Pizza House, a Daytona Beach institution known for generous portions of pasta, pizza slices, and subs. A large slice and drink combo comes in at about $6.99.

And if you’re a fan of seafood, check out Aunt Catfish’s on the River (in nearby Port Orange). They offer early bird specials and mini seafood platters under $14, which is a great deal considering the riverside setting and quality.

4. Food Trucks & Takeout Hidden Gems

Affordable Street Eats and Quick Bites in Daytona Beach

For food that’s both fast and full of flavor, food trucks and hole-in-the-wall takeout joints are where it’s at. Daytona Beach has seen a surge in these mobile and casual eateries, making them perfect for budget travelers.

Rossi’s Deli, just a block off the beach, is famous for its massive subs and sandwiches. Their Italian sub loaded with meats, cheese, and fresh veggies is under $8 and big enough to share.

Don’t miss Montoya’s Pizza & Chicken, a no-frills joint that serves up spicy wings, fried chicken, and pizza deals that compete with national chains—but taste way better.

The Daytona Beach Farmer’s Market on Saturdays (at City Island) often features local food vendors selling empanadas, fresh-squeezed juices, and BBQ—all priced affordably between $5 and $10.

Keep an eye out for food trucks like Wicked Good Seafood, 5V Pizza, or The Bearded Chef, which rotate locations and post their daily menus on social media.

These spots provide the best bang-for-your-buck meals and also let you enjoy Daytona Beach like a local.

5. Insider Tips for Eating on a Budget in Daytona Beach

Practical Ways to Save While Dining Out

Here are some proven strategies for stretching your food budget even further in Daytona Beach:

• Happy Hours: Many restaurants offer discounted drinks and appetizers between 3–6 pm. Check local bars and beachfront eateries for their happy hour deals.

• Early Bird Specials: Eat dinner between 4–6 pm and you’ll often find full meals priced $2–$5 less.

• Combo Meals: Ask about combo plates or meal-of-the-day options. Local diners and sandwich shops often include a side and drink for the same price.

• Daily Specials: Follow Daytona restaurants on Facebook or Instagram. Many post daily deals or flash discounts exclusive to social media followers.

• Student or Local Discounts: If you’re a student or a Daytona Beach resident, don’t hesitate to ask about local discounts. Many places offer 10%–15% off.

• Avoid Peak Tourist Spots: Restaurants right on the boardwalk or near major attractions may have inflated prices. Walk a few blocks inland for more local pricing.

When you're exploring Daytona Beach, these money-saving strategies can go a long way—so you can spend more on experiences and less on food.

Conclusion: Big Taste on a Small Budget in Daytona Beach

Eating well doesn’t mean spending big, especially when you know where to go in Daytona Beach. From hearty diner breakfasts and flavorful taco lunches to relaxing beachside dinners—all under $15—you can savor the local flavor without the financial guilt.

Whether you’re a visitor staying for a weekend or a local looking to switch up your routine, this guide proves that budget-friendly meals in Daytona Beach are both easy to find and totally satisfying.

So next time hunger strikes, skip the chains and dive into the delicious world of affordable, local eats that Daytona has to offer.