By Lisa Hao and Yuki Klotz-Burwell
Living on a college budget can make finding delicious, cheap food nearly impossible.
However, you don’t have to sacrifice quality when going out. Here are the top five affordable, appetizing restaurants within a five-mile radius, where you can get a meal for less than $10.
1. Tava Indian Kitchen, 855 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Indian meets Chipotle at this make-it-your-own “fast-casual” restaurant at Town and Country Village. You can customize your own burritos, rice bowls and salad bowls. Not only are there a variety of sauces, but there are meals for vegetarians and vegans, too. You can grab your food and go, or sit down to enjoy your meal. Prices start at $7.50.
2. Gyros Gyros, 498 University Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94301
Open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day on University Avenue, Gyros Gyros is the best value for your money for Mediterranean food. Wraps, gyros, salads and kebabs all cost less than $10, and the chicken gyros are not something you want to miss.
3. Driftwood Deli & Market, 3450 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Now that the Ike’s Place on campus has closed and you need to find a new place to grab tasty sandwiches, look no further than Driftwood. You can order from a large selection of house specials or build your own sandwiches using Driftwood’s freshly-baked bread. You can also pick up cookies, chips and drinks to complement your order.
4. Taqueria La Bamba Ay Caramba, 580 N. Rengstorff Ave., Mountain View, CA 94043
If you’re in a rush and craving Mexican, La Bamba is the place to go. Their burritos and chips surpass Chipotle’s (yes, we went there) and taste more authentic. Their signature Al Pastor Super Burritos are enormous, delicious and can fill you up no matter how hungry you are. Pupusas, tacos and nachos are also great and affordable choices. Service is always friendly and it’s always a great experience.
5. Maru Ichi Japanese Noodle House, 368 Castro St., Mountain View, CA 94041
You can’t go wrong with this classic Japanese-style ramen stop. The broth is flavorful but not too powerful and the noodles always have the perfect consistency. To cap it off, you also get a side like gyoza, don or sushi with each ramen combo. Although the business only takes cash, all dishes are under $10.