Looking for a tasty, local lunch spot that doesn’t break the bank? We’re here for you, Madison. Check out this list of places where a lunch for one costs $10 or less.
We know proximity is key when it comes to a midday meal, so we’ve broken up these spots into their respective sides of town.
Isthmus
Bagels Forever, 2947 University Ave. | Keep it moving on your lunch break with a bagel, coffee or soda, and bag of chips for roughly $10.
Canteen Taco, 111 S. Hamilton St. | A handheld lunch doesn’t have to be boring — especially at Canteen where two pork belly tacos are just $9.50. Vegetarians and other plant-based eaters won’t go hungry either as this local spot also offers cauliflower, potato, or crispy Brussels sprouts as taco fillings.
Gotham Bagels, 112 E. Miffilin St. | Go full NYC at this bagel shop with a bacon, egg, and
cheese, or keep it classic with a schmear and a coffee.
Mickie’s Dairy Bar, 1511 Monroe St. | This no frills diner opened in 1946 and has since become a Madison staple thanks to its affordable menu. Whether you’re craving a cheeseburger with grilled onions, eggs and toast, or a plate of pancakes, Mickie’s has what you need for less than $10.
Teddywedgers, 101 State St. | No time for a sit-down meal? A grab-and-go pasty will get you through that 2 p.m. slump without slowing you down.
Ian’s Pizza, 100 State St. and 319 N. Frances St. | Get a can of soda, a side salad, and a slice of cheese or pepperoni pizza for $10 on the dot.
ZuZu Cafe, 1336 Drake St. | Bring your laptop with you and cozy up with a grilled panini to check work and lunch off of your to-do list at the same time.
Paul’s Pel’meni, 414 W. Gilman St. | It’s not just late-night food — grab a full order with the works for $8.50. Don’t feel like ordering in? Try our copycat recipe.
Sushi Express, 610 University Ave. | We will never argue with California rolls and crab Rangoon for ~$5 per order.
Chen’s Dumpling House, 505 State St. | Whether you want a variety of appetizers or a classic cold noodle dish, you can choose your own adventure at Chen’s for $10 or less.
Lunch on a stick is ideal for Madisonians on the go. | Photo by Hungry Professor
East side
Zippy Lube, 2013 N. Sherman Ave. | This spot serves up fried chicken sandwiches with classic sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
Glazed, 2161 Zeier Rd. | At $4 a pop, you can double-fist these Instagram-worthy Korean corn dogs for just under $10.
Dave’s Hot Chicken, 4814 Annamark Dr. | Add some heat to your daily routine by picking up spicy chicken tenders + fries for $9.99.
West side
Forage Kitchen, 715 Hilldale Wy. | From salads to grain bowls, quite a bit of this health-conscious restaurant’s menu is $10 or less.
Gino’s, 4606 Verona Rd. + 6509 Century Ave. | While small sandwiches run about $5-$6, a large will cost you $8-$10 and can feed two people.
North and South, 6604 Mineral Point Rd. | Stop by on a Tuesday for two tacos with chips and salsa for $10.
