Where to Eat on Atlanta’s Eastside for $25 or Less

By Muriel Vega

Published June 25, 2026

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The Eastside of Atlanta knows how to steal the spotlight, from being the first area on the Atlanta Beltline to its tree-lined, coveted neighborhoods. But ask any seasoned Atlantan, and they’ll tell you the real draw is the food.

Whether you’re a first-time tourist exploring Atlanta (especially before or after a FIFA World Cup 2026™ match) or a longtime resident who knows every shortcut to avoid traffic, eating well on the Eastside doesn’t have to cost you. Explore beyond Ponce City Market and onto Atlanta’s most charming neighborhoods. From a legendary Monday burger deal in East Atlanta Village to a greasy New York-style pizza slice from our favorite window in Old Fourth Ward, every bite on this list comes in at $25 or less — proof that Atlanta’s best flavors don’t ask much of your wallet. 

Plancha burger and beer deal at Argosy 

On Mondays, when most restaurants take the day off, Argosy shines like a beacon with its plancha burger-and-beer deal for less than $20 in East Atlanta. You get two 4-ounce beef smash patties with crispy edges, caramelized onions, American cheese and house-made pickles. You can substitute an Impossible Burger if you’re a vegetarian. The brew of choice will depend on the week, but it’s always worth it since Argosy has an extensive tap list of more than 50 beers and even more bottled brews. 

Quarter bird combo at Pollo Primo 

Hands down, it’s one of the best deals in town. A quarter-bird combo at Pollo Primo just off Moreland Avenue in East Atlanta is just $12.50, and it comes with rice, beans and the softest flour tortillas ever. That leaves plenty of room in your budget for some $4 churros and a refreshing agua fresca (We are partial to the hibiscus.). Eat it inside in the comfort of the AC or take it outside for an al fresco experience on the big patio.

Steak and frites at Madeira Park 

Madeira Park is the latest addition to the Michelin 2025 list of recommended restaurants in Atlanta, and it’s easy to see why. The Poncey Highland French-leaning bistro has taken the city by storm with its exquisite wine list and iconic anchovy tartine, among other delicious dishes. You can certainly spend a lot here, but if you want to enjoy the ambiance on a budget, come on Saturday and Sunday for the $25 steak and frites deal. The cut can be coulotte or hanger steak, depending on the week. The deal is available from lunch until closing or while supplies last.  

Hot fish sandwich at Fishmonger

We know that President Barack Obama sang praises to the blackened grouper Caesar salad from Fishmonger, but we are big fans of another underrated (and in budget) sandwich at the local Poncey Highland fish market — the hot fish sandwich. The sandwich features a catfish fillet drenched in chili oil and pan-fried until crispy, served with a delicious buttermilk dressing to balance the heat and a toasted, buttered bun. It’s truly a treat a must-experience for just $20.

L5P Breakfast Sammy at Little Five Points Diner

There are many options for $25 (and less) breakfast sandwiches around Atlanta, including Emerald City Bagels and Homegrown. The Little Five Points Diner is a gem nestled at this historic intersection where five main roads used to meet (no longer, due to a pedestrian area). The pairing of the L5P breakfast sammy and a coffee for $13 is hard to beat right before you head for some vinyl shopping at Criminal Records and Wax ‘n Facts or browse the many aisles at Junkman’s Daughter and the Clothing Warehouse. Trust us, you’ll need the fuel.

Yakitori and sushi rolls at Yakitori Kona 

After you peruse the aisles of Virginia Highland Books, walk a couple of doors down the street to Yakitori Kona. Our favorite way to enjoy is by sitting at the bar, ordering one set of two skewers for $10, grilled to perfection, and pair with an eight-piece sushi roll or an $8 hand roll. The ambience at this local Izakaya spot is always great, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite among regulars.

Sandwiches at Bonafide Deluxe

You may need more than two hands to hold these thick sandwiches from Bonafide Deluxe, so much so that you may get two meals out of them. All sandwiches are less than $20. Our favorites are the classic Italian and the Gaucho. The vegan jerk eggplant is a favorite among vegetarians as well. Best part? Bonafide has a big outdoor area, which is family-friendly, and it’s right next to the Edgewood-Candler Park MARTA station in case you don’t have a car that day. 

Sliders at Little’s Food Store

If you’re exploring Krog Street and enjoying the Forward Warrior murals in Cabbagetown, walk down Carroll Street, one of the most notable streets in the neighborhood, and pop into Little’s Food Store. This little market has survived in the neighborhood despite rising rents, and in the back, they cook up some of the juiciest sliders — a double slider basket with fries or slaw is around $12. There also is an Impossible Burger option for vegetarians. 

New York pizza slice at Glide O4W

Just off the Atlanta Beltline Eastside trail at Studioplex, there’s a small window next to a bicycle repair shop. Glide’s Pepp City slices are some of the best the city can offer. Yes, we said it. You’ll see pies flying most of the day at the Old Fourth Ward location, but the line moves fast. Grab a slice or two and wash it down with one of the many drink options. Sit on one of the stools and people-watch or take it back on the Beltline and munch as you stroll.

Sandwiches at Victory Sandwich Bar, Inman Park

Right off the Atlanta Beltline in Inman Park, stroll into the shaded patio at Victory Sandwich Bar. Any day with good weather, it attracts Atlantans with its dog-friendly patio, cold beers and, of course, tasty sandwiches. You can grab two mini-sandwiches, chips and a beer for less than $25. We are partial to the Victory at Sea and the Little Havana with a spiked soda. 

Muriel Vega is an Atlanta-based journalist who writes mostly about technology and its intersection with food, arts, and culture. Her work has appeared in Delta Sky Magazine, The Washington Post, Eater, DWELL, Outside Magazine, Atlanta Magazine, and more.