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
Teddywedgers, 101 State St., Madison
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., Madison
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., Madison
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., Madison
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., Madison
California rolls and crab Rangoons.
Chen’s Dumpling House, 505 State St., Madison
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.
East side
Zippy Lube, 2013 N. Sherman Ave., Madison
This newer-to-Madison spot opened in 2022 and serves up fried chicken sandwiches with classic sides like coleslaw and potato salad.
Glazed, 2161 Zeier Rd., Madison
At $4 a pop, you can double-fist these Instagram-worthy Korean corn dogs for just under $10.
Lunch on a stick is ideal for Madisonians on the go. | Photo by Hungry Professor
Dave’s Hot Chicken, 4814 Annamark Dr., Madison
Grab a slider with fries for $9.99.
West side
Forage Kitchen, 715 Hilldale Wy., Madison
From salads to grain bowls, half of this health-conscious restaurant’s menu is $10 or less.
Gino’s, 4606 Verona Rd., Madison and 6509 Century Ave., Middleton and
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., Madison
Stop by on a Tuesday for two tacos with chips and salsa for $10.
What did we miss? If you know a budget-friendly lunch that’s not on the list, let us know.
