Best Cheap Eats in Cairns – 2023
Best Cheap Eats in Cairns
If you’re looking for delicious and cheap eats in Cairns then look no further. Within this post we will break down where you can get amazing and affordable food.
From traditional Australian pies to mouth-watering Asian cuisine, these budget-friendly options are sure to satisfy your taste buds without burning a hole in your pocket.
So, whether you’re a local or a tourist on a budget, check out these recommendations for some of the best affordable eats in Cairns.
Bagus Cafe – Cheap and delicious Indonesian food
For those who are in the mood for a hearty serving of delicious Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Bagus Cafe is the place to go. The food here is cooked with a lot of care and affection, which is evident in its taste.
This affordable restaurant in Cairns offers delicious fried rice starting at just $11.90. You won’t be able to find a better deal for such satisfying food anywhere else in the area.
Ganbaranba – Best Ramen in Queensland!
One of my favorite affordable restaurants in Cairns is a bustling spot that I adore. Their menu boasts a wide variety of delicious ramen soups, as well as excellent gyoza and other dishes. The staff are always friendly and welcoming, making for a great dining experience.
I have a deep love for ramen, and this restaurant is a true reminder of the small ramen shops I used to frequent in Japan. The taste is simply amazing, and you have to experience it for yourself to understand.
You can order a large serving of Ramen for $10.95 and if you want more noodles, you can add some for an additional cost of less than $2. Enjoy!
Corea Corea – Best Korean food in Cairns
For those who are less familiar with Korean cuisine, Corea Corea is an excellent starting point. However, even those who are well-versed in Korean food will still find the offerings at Corea Corea to be enjoyable.
This restaurant has made it to our list of top budget-friendly dining spots in Cairns because it offers great value for your money. You can enjoy a scrumptious meal here for as low as $12.
The Roti Shack – Best Caribbean food
This business is run by a family and they serve the most delicious Caribbean roti that you can find, although it may not compare to the ones you’ll have in Grenada or other Caribbean islands.
This West Indian curry wrapped in a handmade flatbread is a delightful treat that will leave you feeling happy. You can enjoy this tasty dish for as little as $12.50, with the price increasing depending on your preferences.
Rusty’s Markets – Japanese Special Combo Lunch
The fresh Japanese food was delicious, especially the Special Combo lunch for $14.50, but the udon noodle meals and sushi hand-rolls are also great affordable options in Cairns.
Evo Burger
If you’re in the mood for a delicious burger but don’t want to spend too much money, Evo’s Burgers is a great option. Their burgers are affordable, starting at $11.90, and the Oink Oink Burger is highly recommended.
The Oink Oink sandwich is packed with savory bacon, gooey cheese, and a mouth-watering relish that is simply irresistible. This sandwich is a must-try, especially when you need a satisfying meal after a night out. The location is 105 Lake St, Cairns City.
Meldrum’s Pies
If you’re looking for a delicious Aussie pie, look no further! This establishment is renowned in Cairns as one of the best budget-friendly dining options and a local institution.
Meldrum’s is a bakery in Cairns that specializes in making more than 40 unique variations of the iconic Australian pie. Their range includes traditional steak pies as well as more adventurous flavors like Caribbean chicken, pumpkin gnocchi, and tuna mornay. Meldrum’s is the perfect place to look for affordable dining options in Cairns, as they offer great value for money.
Pho Viet Vietnamese Noodle Bar
For those looking for affordable yet delicious Vietnamese cuisine in Cairns, Pho Viet Noodle Bar is a must-try. Their Pho dishes start at only $13.90 and are exceptionally tasty. However, their Viet’ Bun Nem Nuong, which consists of vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, nuoc cham sauce, and special grilled pork or beef on bamboo sticks, is a personal favorite. It’s definitely worth a try!
Thi Thi Vietnamese Food Bar
The freshly baked Vietnamese bread has a deliciously crisp crust and is filled with all the classic ingredients of a Bahn Mi sandwich. It’s a taste that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Hanoi, Vietnam.
Imm Thai Cafe – Cheap and delicious Thai food
Indulge in a delightful selection of classic Thai dishes, generously served to satisfy your cravings. The main courses are priced affordably, under $15, and you’re sure to relish every bite.
Thailand is a country that offers a plethora of experiences that will inspire you to book a flight ticket and head there right away! From exploring the vibrant culture to indulging in the delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Therefore, it’s no surprise that trying out the local delicacies has made it to my list of the top 15 amazing things to do in Thailand.
Mando – Cheap Korean food lunch specials
If you’re looking for delicious Korean food in Cairns, head to this cozy restaurant on Spence Street. For just $10, you can enjoy their popular lunch specials featuring a variety of Korean rice bowls. Make sure to try them out before the special ends at 2.30 p.m. Don’t miss out on this affordable and tasty meal option.
Pho Street Cairns
It’s impossible not to notice the strong scent of the pho noodle broth. Additionally, the charming small tables and plastic chairs located in front of the busy cafe will bring back memories of traveling in Vietnam.
Summary of cheap Cairns eats
Cairns is a city with a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Australian pies, Korean rice bowls, or Vietnamese pho, there is something for everyone.
The best cheap eats in Cairns listed above are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. So, whether you’re a local or a tourist on a budget, check out these recommendations for some of the best affordable eats in Cairns.
