Sydney has a dazzling reputation for world-class dining, but that doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune to eat well. Beyond the hatted restaurants and waterfront views lies a vibrant, diverse, and incredibly delicious cheap eats scene. If you know where to look, the city is a treasure trove of authentic, budget-friendly meals that deliver big on flavour without breaking the bank.

This guide is your passport to the best affordable food Sydney has to offer. We've sifted through local recommendations to uncover the hidden gems, bustling food courts, and neighbourhood favourites where you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around $20. From hearty Thai rice dishes and comforting Japanese noodles to authentic handmade dumplings and even a high-quality steak for under $40, prepare to embark on a culinary tour that proves Sydney's food scene is as accessible as it is exciting.

Tucked away in the food court at the top of Sussex Shopping Centre, Yummy Thai Food is a beloved spot for those in the know. This is where you'll find authentic, no-frills Thai comfort food at unbeatable prices.

• Must-Try Dish: The star of the show is Dish Number 6, the Pig's Trotter Rice (猪脚饭). For under $20, you get a generous plate of incredibly tender pork, slow-braised until it's falling apart, served over rice with a rich, flavourful sauce. A side of pickled greens cuts through the richness, making for a perfectly balanced and deeply satisfying meal.

For a taste of Japan that feels both authentic and incredibly affordable, head to Inase Sakaba. This spot is described by regulars as their favourite "日餐小饭堂" (Japanese canteen), a place where you can get a fantastic meal for around $20 per person. The atmosphere is lively and casual, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

• What to Order: The Osaka-style Okonomiyaki is a highlight, praised for being as good as what you'd find in its city of origin. The menu also features hearty udon noodle soups and Japanese set meals that offer incredible value.

Don't let the name fool you; while the dumplings are great, this Chinatown eatery is a go-to for hearty and authentic Northeast Chinese cuisine. It's a place where you can feast until you're full for just over $20 per person, making it a top choice for budget-conscious groups.

• Must-Try Dish: The Guo Bao Rou (锅包肉) is a standout. This classic dish features thin slices of pork fried to a perfect crisp and coated in a tangy, sweet and sour sauce. It's an addictive and satisfying centrepiece for any meal.

A quality steak dinner is usually a splurge, but Alfie's in the CBD flips that script. This unique steakhouse offers what might be the best value steak in the city, making a typically expensive meal accessible to those on a budget.

• The Deal: The menu features just one type of steak: a 220g sirloin, cooked to perfection with a beautifully charred crust and tender interior, for an incredible price of $39.
• Don't Miss the Side: The must-order accompaniment is the Potato Rosti. For just $7, you get a crispy, savoury potato cake topped with grated cheese and bacon bits—it's the perfect partner to your steak.

This gem near Town Hall has earned a cult following for its authentic Northern Thai cuisine, even attracting a visit from Cantopop star Eason Chan. With an average cost of around $20 per person, Khao Soi delivers a flavour experience that punches well above its price point.

• Signature Dish: You can't visit without trying the dish the restaurant is named for: Khao Soi. This fragrant coconut curry noodle soup is the star of the show, featuring a rich, slightly spicy, and deeply comforting broth served with both soft and crispy noodles. It's a taste of Chiang Mai right in the heart of Sydney.

Sometimes, the best cheap eats are the simplest. Sui’s Handmade Dumplings in Annandale is a humble eatery that has earned rave reviews, with some diners calling its dumplings the best they've ever had. It's a testament to the power of fresh, handmade food done right.

• What to Get: The classic handmade dumplings are the main attraction. Choose from comforting fillings like cabbage or chive. For something more substantial, the beef chow mein is also highly recommended, featuring tender beef and perfectly chewy, hand-pulled noodles.

This old-school Cantonese eatery (大排档) in Rockdale is a local legend, famous for serving up massive portions of comforting food at incredible prices. It's the kind of place where you can bring a group and feast for about $25 per person.

• The Star Attraction: The Pepper Pork Stomach Chicken Soup is a must-order. For just $25.80, you get a huge, warming pot of flavourful soup that's easily enough to be shared among six people. It's the ultimate comfort food and a fantastic value.

For sashimi lovers on a budget, Jagalchi in Lidcombe is a true hidden gem. This Korean restaurant offers an incredible deal on fresh, thick-cut sashimi that allows you to indulge without the usual high price tag.

• The Unbeatable Deal: With an average cost of around $30 per person, you can enjoy a huge mixed sashimi bowl. The medium size is reportedly large enough for two people to share, making it one of the best value sashimi experiences in the city. You can find more information about dining in Sydney on the official tourism website.

Located in The Galeries shopping centre, Ichi-ban Boshi is a go-to spot for affordable and delicious Japanese comfort food. It's a reliable choice for a quick lunch or dinner that always hits the spot.

• Popular Dishes: Regulars rave about the flavourful Japanese cheese fried chicken ramen. Another favourite is the classic Omurice Yakisoba, a satisfying dish of stir-fried noodles wrapped in a soft omelette. It's simple, tasty, and easy on the wallet.

A long-standing fixture in Sydney's food scene, Cho Dumpling King has been serving up authentic Taiwanese fare for over twenty years. It's a beloved spot for students and locals looking for a comforting and affordable taste of Taiwan.

• Comforting Classics: The Lu Rou Fan (braised pork rice) is a must-try, offering a simple yet deeply flavourful meal. Another popular item is the Tian Bu La, a type of Taiwanese fried fish cake. It's the perfect place to get a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal.