Bridgeport boasts plenty of great restaurants—but it also has a lot of expensive great restaurants. While we’ll happily splurge on occasion, it’s essential to have options when you don’t feel like breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the 18 best spots, where quality meets affordability, ensuring every meal is both memorable and reasonably priced.
The Tasty Yolk (Food Truck)
$ | (203) 572-8884 | WEBSITE
Aside from being a good breakfast spot (The Tasty Yolk opens early for morning cravings), this casual food truck is a perfect place for an affordable meal. Hidden in its overwhelmingly long menu is a section labeled “Sandwiches.” There you can get a hearty smashed potato base and a protein, like the flavorful brisket in the Banker, the savory Toma with its special sauce, or the satisfying Good Morning Clucker—all for around $8.50.
That way, even if you’ve spent most of your morning rushing to work you can still grab a delicious meal here on the go.
Rum & Tequilla Fusion
$$ | (203) 330-3388 | WEBSITE
Since Rum & Tequilla Fusion serves some of the most flavorful oxtail in Bridgeport, this vibrant Caribbean spot could easily charge top dollar for their tender, fat-free masterpieces and we’d gladly pay up. But we truly appreciate that their generous portions come at reasonable prices—which means (according to our very practical budgeting) with $25 you could enjoy the oxtail with a side and call it a satisfying meal.
Their healthy menu with options like the shrimp Rasta pasta during happy hour is all excellent, but ordering one of their amazing drink specials to complement the experience is essential. The friendly owner and attentive staff like Lani and Natasha create a memorable atmosphere perfect for any occasion, often with music setting the mood, though we did notice the gratuity charge felt a bit steep for the otherwise top-tier service.
Magical Fantasia
$ | (929) 476-7114 | WEBSITE
What’s better than a fresh, warm donut? A fresh, warm donut for just a few dollars from Magical Fantasia in Bridgeport. Each treat from this charming bakery comes with a light, fluffy texture, various fillings, and your choice of flavors that you can customize based on your craving.
The cozy dining area is actually more inviting than it seems from the outside, so while you can definitely come here for a quick solo treat, it’s also great for a sweet outing with friends where you won’t have to worry about reminding them to Venmo you later.
Queens Delight Cafe
$ | (203) 332-6252 | WEBSITE
From the fluffy red velvet waffles, to the perfectly crispy fried chicken, our stomachs do a happy dance whenever we think about Queens Delight Cafe’s breakfast. Plus, this cozy Bridgeport spot serves fantastic comfort food for around $15 a plate. We like to alternate between the Fruity Pebble French Toast served with fried chicken wings, or the classic red velvet waffle topped with cream cheese frosting and fresh berries.
Both also get plenty of flavor from sweet strawberry lemonade, honey-like biscuits, and the welcoming service that makes this small Black-owned gem truly stand out.
Azteca
$ | (203) 345-3232 | WEBSITE
This cash-only Mexican market in Bridgeport is a huge reason to always have at least one bill with a portrait of a founding father. And with that $12 you can get a sizable cemita full of slow-cooked chicken or tender pork with guacamole, a generous portion of fresh fruit, and still have enough left over for a drink.
It’s the ideal place for a quick lunch or dinner, and make sure to get their delicious (and fresh) al pastor on the side (though you might want to bring some extra napkins with you beforehand).
O’Manel Restaurant
$$ | (203) 335-1676 | WEBSITE
When people think about going out for authentic Portuguese food, they might worry about portion sizes being too small or prices being too high. But that’s not the case at O’Manel Restaurant. This Bridgeport spot not only serves perfect Portuguese dishes, but also offers generous portions at reasonable prices. Classic plates like Portuguese Steak or Bacalhau à Brás all cost around $18 while specials like the Pork & Shrimp or grilled octopus are priced around $22.
And with appetizers and desserts like the rich chocolate mousse or creamy flan priced around $8, you can enjoy a full meal without spending a fortune. The small, intimate dining room has a casual and friendly atmosphere with warm lighting and simple wooden tables, and while they accept cards, it’s always good to have some cash on hand for their excellent Sangria while you wait.
Famous 50’s Diner
$ | (203) 572-0777 | WEBSITE
For a nostalgic breakfast experience with hearty eggs benedict, crispy potatoes, and Mexican-inspired dinner items, head to Famous 50’s Diner in Bridgeport. You can taste all the advertised flavors in their generous, well-prepared portions. Even without their unique beverages like the Margarita Smoothie, the food is satisfying, served in a spacious setting that holds strong with its 50-60s charm.
And since most everything costs $12 or less, this place is ideal for a family meal featuring lots of attentive service. Or a solo diner trip that’s heavy on comfort and light on the wallet.
Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill
$$ | (203) 362-4100 | WEBSITE
Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill in Bridgeport hasn’t been around forever, but this underwater-themed bowling alley and grill somehow feels like it’s been a family destination for generations. Glowing jellyfish lamps and nautical decor are complemented by surprisingly fresh food options and entertainment deals that make you forget you’re spending money, like $12 Western Burgers that come with crispy fries and $10 fish tacos that taste straight from the ocean.
But the best value is on weekends when you can get two hours of bowling with automatic bumpers for the kids, plus a round of skee ball in the arcade, all for under $30 per person.
Sabores restaurant
$$ | (203) 690-1040 | WEBSITE
Inside this cozy Colombian eatery in Bridgeport you’ll find a handful of tables with warm lighting, vibrant Latin music, and some of the best authentic dishes in Connecticut. A few of our favorites at Sabores are their Calentado Típico, flavorful empanadas, and delicious lomo saltado. And since all of the main dishes are hovering at $12, it’s easy to come up with a complete meal that will comfortably fall around $25.
That extra few dollars can go towards a Coffecito con leche or some salchipapa, so you won’t even need this guide.
Pho Hong Thom
$ | (203) 690-1533 | WEBSITE
This Vietnamese restaurant in Bridgeport has been recognized as Connecticut Magazine’s ‘Best Vietnamese Restaurant’ in 2024, and it’s easy to see why. The pho here is particularly praised for its perfect noodles, aromatic broth, and generous toppings—both the chicken and steak versions are incredible and well-balanced. From the most satisfying and flavorful shrimp summer rolls, to the savory and nostalgic Vietnamese shrimp stir-fried noodles, there are plenty of authentic dishes to choose from.
Plus, the restaurant offers a 3-item vegan menu including a filling and flavorful fried yellow noodle with tofu dish. Customers have described the service as fast, comfortable, and friendly, and the overall dining experience as a great value for the quality of the food.
Los parceros french fries
$ | (203) 673-5148 | WEBSITE
Los Parceros French Fries is a Colombian spot in Bridgeport with a menu full of hearty options that all come in under $20. There’s a mix of Colombian specialties alongside familiar American favorites, like a satisfying burger with their signature house sauce. We always debate between the Colombian French Fries loaded with savory pork belly and sausage, or the one topped with sweet plantains and shredded cheese that’s so perfectly balanced we should probably write it a love letter.
Most visitors come to this intimate, Instagram-ready space for a family meal, but there are also a handful of cozy tables for dining in.
Crown Cafe
$$ | (203) 870-0705 | WEBSITE
This charming cafe in the north end has breakfast sandwiches and casual fare down to a science. Everything is cooked perfectly with fresh buns and manages to stay affordable, like the excellent Reuben and veggie sandwich options. Lucky for you, their breakfast sandwiches are also winners, and clock in at just $6. The fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and your choice of bacon or sausage on a toasted bun is what a fast-food breakfast aspires to be.
And if you’ve got money to burn after discovering your childhood piggy bank, splurge a little and spend $2 for a side, like hash browns or fresh fruit.
The Castle, Black Rock
$$ | (203) 292-8410 | WEBSITE
The best neighborhood pub in Bridgeport is at a lively Irish spot in Black Rock called The Castle. No, that wasn’t an exaggeration. In fact, as soon as you walk in you’ll feel the warm hospitality from the staff and owners who are involved every step of the way. The live band playing hits from the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s creates a festive atmosphere that brings together both old and young customers.
But maybe the best part is that the Buffalo Cauliflower appetizer with two dipping sauces is only $9.95.
Thelma’s Soul Food Restaurant & Bar
$ | (203) 337-9957 | WEBSITE
Thelma’s Soul Food Restaurant & Bar is a welcoming Bridgeport spot that serves exceptional Southern comfort food. Their dishes feature generous portions that truly satisfy, especially the succulent catfish dinner with savory yams and the fried chicken that’s finger-licking good. And whether we’re enjoying our meal in the soothing dining room, grabbing a quick bite at the bar, or treating ourselves after a long week—we can appreciate that each hearty plate comes in at just $15.
TuttiMango
$ | (203) 296-9346 | WEBSITE
The signature drink at this charming Bridgeport spot is the refreshing Verry Berry smoothie. But if that’s not enough to pique your interest—maybe a $7.95 price point will. At TuttiMango, that gets you a generous smoothie that comes loaded with fresh fruit. Not in the mood for a smoothie? Their Eve’s Mangonada costs the same.
Ramirez Restaurant
$ | (203) 362-0583 | WEBSITE
This cash-only Latin American spot in Bridgeport is from the same people behind the popular cafeteria-style takeout concept. But we like this location because it’s a fantastic place to grab a cheap and flavorful meal without dealing with the hiked-up prices at fancier Latin restaurants. The place is small, but we’ve always been able to grab a spot at the counter or the few outdoor tables, which still manage to have more room than our last budget airline seat.
The rice and beans have a rich, authentic texture, the chicken plate is juicy, and you can upgrade to the popular 1 meat, rice, and beans combo without breaking the $12 barrier.
CJs Jerk Center Jamaican Restaurant
$$ | (203) 212-3545 | WEBSITE
This Bridgeport spot claims to serve jerk chicken that rivals what you’d find in Jamaica, which we choose to believe because of how flavorful theirs is. But they also have vegetarian options like steamed cabbage, callaloo, ackee, and dumplings—all of which cost less than $15 and come with that signature smoky aroma. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, but it’s still satisfying whether you’re grabbing takeout to enjoy at home or trying to soak up the good vibes while you wait.
Cafeteria Morla Restaurant
$ | (203) 335-8944 | WEBSITE
Nearly everything here is under $12, a remarkable value for this bustling Spanish spot in Bridgeport with its extensive menu of traditional favorites. Our regular picks are their tender pernil and crispy chicharron or flavorful pasteles paired with sweet bananas. But for maximum satisfaction, order the family-style combinations: generous platters of meat and sides that’ll easily feed a group.
And since it’s often busy with regulars, their lively dining area is a perfect place to gather when all you want is to dive into some authentic Spanish comfort food.
