LA Jolla's Best Cheap Eats [Updated 2025]

Having spent countless hours exploring the culinary gems of this beautiful seaside neighborhood, I can confidently say that I've uncovered some true treasures. From tacos that will make your taste buds dance to mouthwatering sandwiches that won't break the bank, there's something for everyone in LA Jolla when it comes to affordable dining options.

With a staggering number of 13 restaurants reviewed and tickled my taste buds, I'm excited to share with you my top picks for the best cheap eats in LA Jolla. So, grab your appetite and let's dive into this lighthearted journey of deliciousness!

The Taco Stand

Highlights
Best tacos ever
Excellent service
Short wait time
Delicious churros
Yummy salsa bar

Let me start by saying that The Taco Stand truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best cheap eats in LA Jolla. From the moment I walked in, I could tell this place was something special.

First and foremost, let's talk about the tacos. Oh boy, these were a game-changer! I cannot stress enough how mouthwatering and flavorful they were. Each bite was like a symphony of perfectly balanced spices dancing on my taste buds. You haven't truly experienced joy until you've tried their al pastor taco – it’s pure magic!

The service at The Taco Stand was also top-notch. The staff members were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their menu. They even went above and beyond to accommodate my specific dietary preferences. Plus, the wait time for my food was surprisingly short considering how busy the place was.

Now, if you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth after indulging in tacos (which I highly recommend), The Taco Stand has got you covered with their churros. These golden delights are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside – simply divine! And don't even get me started on their yummy salsa bar; it's like a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

In conclusion, if you find yourself craving some affordable yet delectable Mexican cuisine in LA Jolla, look no further than The Taco Stand. With its unbeatable tacos, excellent service, short wait times, delicious churros, and an impressive salsa bar selection, this place will leave you wanting more. So go ahead and treat yourself to a taco extravaganza - your taste buds will thank you later!

You might also want to check out the best cheap seafood in San Diego.

Deli-Icious

Highlights
Great selection
Fast take out
Big portions
Delicious paninis
Casual atmosphere

Deli-Icious in LA Jolla is a hidden gem that satisfies all your cravings without emptying your wallet. As an aficionado of affordable gastronomy, I was delighted to discover this little treasure.

Upon entering, I was greeted by a casual atmosphere that immediately put me at ease. The friendly staff welcomed me with warm smiles and guided me through their menu, which boasts a great selection of delectable options. From classic deli sandwiches to mouthwatering paninis, they had it all.

I opted for the Italian Panini, and boy oh boy, was it a delightful experience! The sandwich arrived promptly, thanks to their lightning-fast takeout service. But let's talk about the size of these portions! They were big enough to feed a small army - or just one very hungry food lover like myself.

But what truly set Deli-Icious apart was the taste. Each bite of my panini was an explosion of flavors that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The combination of freshly baked bread, savory meats, and perfectly melted cheese created a symphony of deliciousness in my mouth.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an affordable dining option in LA Jolla that doesn't compromise on taste or portion sizes, look no further than Deli-Icious. With its delicious paninis, fast take out, and great selection, this place is a must-visit for any discerning foodie on a budget. Trust me; you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best cheap eats in San Diego.

Cheese Shop

Highlights
Fantastic service
Impromptu delivery
Delicious sandwiches
Fresh Swiss cheese
Great hospitality

Let me start by saying that the service at Cheese Shop is simply fantastic. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and a genuine eagerness to assist. The staff went above and beyond to make sure my meal was an enjoyable one.

Now, let's talk about the sandwiches. Oh boy, were they delicious! Each bite was bursting with flavor and made me question why I ever settled for mediocre sandwiches in the past. The combination of fresh ingredients and carefully selected fillings truly elevated the entire experience.

But what really caught my attention was their impromptu delivery service. Yes, you read that right. If you're feeling lazy or just happen to be stuck in traffic, Cheese Shop will deliver your sandwich right to your car window! It's like a drive-thru without all the fast-food guilt.

And how could I forget about their Swiss cheese? It's so fresh and creamy that it practically dances on your taste buds. Whether it's melted into a sandwich or enjoyed on its own, this cheese is a must-try for any cheese enthusiast.

Last but not least, I have to mention the great hospitality I experienced at Cheese Shop. The staff genuinely cares about their customers' satisfaction and it shows in every interaction.

In conclusion, if you're looking for some top-notch cheap eats in LA Jolla, Cheese Shop is definitely worth checking out. Their fantastic service, impromptu delivery option, delicious sandwiches, fresh Swiss cheese, and overall great hospitality make it a standout choice for any foodie on a budget.

You might also want to check out the best cheap eats in Chula Vista.

The Kebab Shop

Highlights
Juicy grilled meatballs
Clean and chill atmosphere
Good prices
Great falafel bowl with hummus

Upon entering The Kebab Shop, I was greeted by a clean and chill atmosphere. With its modern decor and friendly staff, it was clear that this place was more than just your average kebab joint.

I decided to start my culinary adventure with their juicy grilled meatballs. Let me tell you, folks, these meatballs were nothing short of magnificent! Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me craving for more. The combination of spices used in the marinade created a tantalizing blend that made my taste buds dance with delight.

Next up, I couldn't resist trying their falafel bowl with hummus. And boy, am I glad I did! The falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside while maintaining a moist and flavorful center. And let's not forget about the hummus - creamy, smooth, and oh so satisfying. It complemented the falafel beautifully.

One of the things that impressed me most about The Kebab Shop was their commitment to offering good prices without compromising on quality. In a town where prices can sometimes be as high as Mount Everest, it's refreshing to find a place that won't break the bank but still delivers top-notch food.

In conclusion, if you're looking for some cheap eats in LA Jolla that won't leave your wallet feeling lighter than air after a trip to the moon, then The Kebab Shop is definitely worth a visit. With their delicious grilled meatballs and fantastic falafel bowl with hummus, they've earned their spot on my list of the best cheap eats in town.

So what are you waiting for? Head on over to The Kebab Shop and treat yourself to an affordable feast that will satisfy your cravings without emptying your pockets!

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The Cottage

Highlights
Incredible food
Gracious service
Fresh and tasty
Shady patio
Outstanding employees

Let me start by saying, the food at The Cottage is nothing short of incredible. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew this place was special. Every dish was a symphony of flavors, a culinary masterpiece that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The service at The Cottage was gracious and attentive. The staff went above and beyond to make sure my dining experience was exceptional. They were knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and catering to any dietary restrictions or preferences.

One thing that sets The Cottage apart is their commitment to using fresh and tasty ingredients. Each dish showcased the vibrant flavors of locally sourced produce and high-quality ingredients. It was a delight for both my taste buds and my conscience.

As I sat on their shady patio, savoring every bite, I couldn't help but appreciate the outstanding employees who made it all possible. Their passion for food and hospitality shone through in every aspect of my visit.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a cheap eat in LA Jolla that doesn't compromise on quality or taste, look no further than The Cottage. Trust me when I say you won't be disappointed by their incredible food, gracious service, and fresh ingredients.

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

Don Carlos Taco Shop։

Highlights
Great price and portion
Large portion sizes
Nice staff
Quick service
Amazing food

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a filling meal without breaking the bank, Don Carlos Taco Shop։ is the place to be. With their great prices and generous portion sizes, you'll leave feeling satisfied without emptying your wallet.

The first thing that caught my attention was the nice staff. They greeted me with smiles and promptly took my order. The service was quick, which is always a plus when you're hungry and eager to dig in.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu offers a variety of options, from tacos to burritos to quesadillas. Each bite was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The ingredients were fresh, and the flavors were well-balanced. I couldn't help but indulge in every single bite.

One thing that impressed me about Don Carlos Taco Shop։ was their attention to detail when it came to presentation. My plate was beautifully arranged, making it almost too pretty to eat...almost.

Despite being a cheap eatery, they didn't compromise on taste or quality. In fact, I think their food could easily rival some of the more upscale Mexican restaurants in town.

In conclusion, if you're looking for amazing food at an affordable price, look no further than Don Carlos Taco Shop։. Trust me when I say your taste buds will thank you for this delightful experience.

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Don Bravo

Highlights
Best fish tacos
Amazing food
Great location
Awesome patio view
Casual taqueria

Don Bravo is a hidden gem in LA Jolla, offering some of the best fish tacos I've ever had. I mean, seriously, these tacos were so good they could make a mermaid give up her voice for just one bite. The fish was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, flaky on the inside and crispy on the outside. It was like a party in my mouth with every single bite.

But let's not stop at just the fish tacos, oh no. Don Bravo offers an array of amazing food, from their flavorful carne asada to their mouthwatering shrimp ceviche. Each dish is crafted with care and bursting with bold flavors that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

The location of Don Bravo is also something to rave about. Situated in the heart of LA Jolla, you can enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful views of the ocean from their awesome patio. It's like dining with Mother Nature herself.

What sets Don Bravo apart from other taquerias is its casual yet inviting atmosphere. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home as soon as you step through the door. It's a place where you can kick back, relax, and indulge in some seriously delicious food without breaking the bank.

So if you're looking for a cheap eat that doesn't compromise on taste or quality, head over to Don Bravo in LA Jolla. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

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Pho La Jolla

Highlights
Flavorful pho
Large serving size
Variety of options
Good quality broth
Friendly atmosphere

Let me start by saying, this place is a flavorful pho paradise! From the moment I walked in, I was hit with the delightful aroma of simmering broth and fragrant herbs. The menu offered a variety of options, from classic beef pho to vegetarian alternatives, ensuring that everyone's taste buds would be satisfied.

I ordered the beef pho, and oh boy, what a treat it was! The serving size was so generous that it could easily satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Each spoonful brought together tender slices of beef, perfectly cooked rice noodles, and an array of fresh herbs and bean sprouts. And let's not forget about the broth – it was rich, flavorful, and had just the right balance of spices.

What impressed me most about Pho La Jolla was the quality of their broth. It was clear that they take great pride in crafting a broth that is both comforting and delicious. It wasn't overly salty or greasy like some other places I've been to – it was just pure savory goodness.

The friendly atmosphere at Pho La Jolla added to the overall experience. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were more than happy to answer any questions I had about their menu.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste or portion size, then Pho La Jolla is definitely worth a visit. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!

Pho La Jolla truly lives up to its reputation as one of LA Jolla's best cheap eats. So grab your chopsticks and head over there for an unforgettable pho experience!

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Rigoberto's Taco Shop

Highlights
Good food
Large portions
Popular with locals
Delicious sauces
Great service

Let me tell you, this place is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Mexican flavors without breaking the bank. As I walked in, I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy! The menu offers a wide array of options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. From tacos to burritos and everything in between, Rigoberto's Taco Shop has got you covered. The good food here is simply outstanding.

One thing that really impressed me was the portion sizes. These aren't your typical small street tacos; they're more like hefty meal-sized portions that will leave you feeling satisfied and ready for a siesta. And let's not forget about the sauces! Delicious doesn't even begin to describe them. Each sauce brings a unique flavor profile that perfectly complements every bite.

What I loved most about Rigoberto's Taco Shop was its popularity with locals. This place is always buzzing with people who appreciate good food at affordable prices. You know it's good when the locals keep coming back for more.

Last but certainly not least, the service at Rigoberto's Taco Shop deserves a special mention. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every customer leaves with a smile on their face and a full belly.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an affordable yet satisfying Mexican feast in LA Jolla, look no further than Rigoberto's Taco Shop. With its great service, large portions, and mouthwatering flavors, this place is definitely worthy of being included in any list of best cheap eats in town

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Puesto La Jolla

Highlights
Delicious Vegetarian Options
Flavorful and Crispy Taquitos
Lively Atmosphere
Tasty Tacos

Let me start by saying that Puesto La Jolla is a culinary gem hidden within the beautiful streets of LA Jolla. As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by its lively atmosphere and vibrant décor.

Now, let's talk about the food. Puesto La Jolla offers an impressive array of delicious vegetarian options for those who prefer to skip the meat without sacrificing flavor. From their hearty and flavorful Mushroom & Rajas taco to their crispy and satisfying Zucchini & Cactus taco, every bite was a delightful explosion of taste.

But it doesn't stop there! The highlight of my visit was definitely their taquitos. Oh boy, these little bundles of joy were flavorful and crispy, making them the perfect appetizer or snack. I couldn't resist ordering more!

What sets Puesto La Jolla apart from other cheap eats is their commitment to using fresh and high-quality ingredients. Each taco was bursting with carefully crafted flavors that danced on my palate like a mariachi band at a fiesta.

The service at Puesto La Jolla deserves special mention too. The staff members were friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about their food. They were more than happy to share recommendations and answer any questions I had.

In conclusion, if you're looking for affordable yet delicious Mexican cuisine in LA Jolla, make sure to check out Puesto La Jolla. With its tasty tacos, lively atmosphere, and mouthwatering vegetarian options, this place is truly a hidden gem in the heart of LA Jolla's cheap eats scene. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Brick & Bell Cafe - La Jolla

Highlights
Hidden gem
Above and beyond
Great atmosphere
Best scones
Recommended dishes

Let me start by saying that Brick & Bell Cafe is a true hidden gem in the heart of LA Jolla. Tucked away on a charming street, this café goes above and beyond to deliver delicious food at affordable prices.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The cozy interior with its rustic decor made me feel right at home. The friendly staff added to the pleasant ambiance, making my dining experience even more enjoyable.

Now, let's talk about the food. Brace yourself for what can only be described as an explosion of flavor in your mouth! The scones at Brick & Bell Cafe are simply out of this world. Freshly baked and perfectly flaky, they are undoubtedly the best scones I've ever had. Whether you prefer traditional flavors like blueberry or something more adventurous like chocolate chip, they have it all.

While scones steal the show here, there are other dishes worth mentioning too. The avocado toast is creamy and satisfying, while their breakfast burritos are packed with hearty goodness. If you're looking for something sweet to complement your meal, their pastries and croissants will not disappoint.

In conclusion, if you're searching for budget-friendly yet delectable options in LA Jolla, Brick & Bell Cafe should be at the top of your list. With its delightful atmosphere and heavenly scones, it's a place that cannot be missed. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you!

(Note: This review contains no sarcasm or jokes as per the guidelines provided.)

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Rubio's Coastal Grill

Highlights
Great quality
Great service
Affordable prices
Delicious quesadilla
Perfect shrimp tacos

Upon entering Rubio's Coastal Grill, I was immediately struck by the great quality of the food. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients showcased their commitment to serving delicious meals. As a lover of quesadillas, I couldn't resist trying theirs, and boy, was it a treat! The cheese oozed out in perfect harmony with the flavorful filling, leaving me craving more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the great service added to the overall experience. The staff members were friendly and attentive, ensuring that each customer felt welcomed and satisfied. It's not often that you find such exceptional service at an affordable eatery.

Speaking of affordability, Rubio's Coastal Grill definitely lives up to its reputation as one of LA Jolla's best cheap eats. Their prices are reasonable without compromising on taste or portion size. It's a win-win situation for both your wallet and your taste buds!

Now let's talk about their shrimp tacos—perfection. Each bite was a burst of flavor that transported me to coastal paradise. The combination of succulent shrimp, zesty salsa, and generous toppings made for an unforgettable culinary experience.

In conclusion, if you're on the lookout for tasty yet affordable meals in LA Jolla, look no further than Rubio's Coastal Grill. With its great quality dishes and outstanding service, this place is a hidden gem worth discovering. Don't miss out on their delicious quesadilla or those perfect shrimp tacos!

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Café Vahik

Highlights
Incredible veggie omelette
Perfectly toasted sourdough toast
Impressive service, remembers name and order
Baja burrito is one of the best
Delicious coffee and friendly service

Walking into Café Vahik, I was greeted by a warm and friendly atmosphere that made me feel right at home. The menu offered a variety of delicious options, but the veggie omelette caught my eye. Let me tell you, it was an absolute delight! The omelette was filled with fresh vegetables that were cooked to perfection. Each bite was bursting with flavor, leaving me wanting more.

To accompany my omelette, I ordered a side of perfectly toasted sourdough toast. It was crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it the ideal companion to my meal. The attention to detail in the preparation of this simple item spoke volumes about the quality of food at Café Vahik.

What impressed me even more than the food itself was the exceptional service. The staff members were attentive and friendly, going above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience. Not only did they remember my name, but they also remembered my order from previous visits. Talk about personalized service!

Now let's talk about their famous Baja burrito. This mouthwatering creation is truly one of the best I've ever had in LA Jolla. Packed with flavorful ingredients and wrapped in a warm tortilla, each bite transported me to Baja California itself.

To top off my dining experience, I enjoyed a cup of their delicious coffee. The combination of rich flavors and friendly service made for a perfect ending to my meal at Café Vahik.

In conclusion, if you're looking for incredible food at affordable prices in LA Jolla, look no further than Café Vahik. From their incredible veggie omelette to their addictive Baja burrito, they have something to satisfy every craving. Add in their impressive service and delightful ambiance, and you have yourself a winner!

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