Wondering where to eat on a budget? Enjoying a delicious meal doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and you don’t need to drive all over town. Here’s a walking food tour of downtown Corvallis for 13 of the most affordable spots to visit that will satisfy your appetite and your wallet too.
Alley Gyros sells several gyro options for under $12, along with flavorful appetizers and salads. Located right off 3rd Street, it’s a great lunch spot.
American Dream Pizza (214 SW 2nd St.) has two locations. The downtown location has outdoor picnic tables in the same building as Crowbar. Famous for their thick-cut pies, salads start at just $7.50 and you can order pizza by the slice. They also serve cocktails and delicious homemade cookies.
Baguette Vietnamese Sandwiches (121 SW 3rd St.) doesn’t disappoint with their budget-friendly sandwich selections. Their substantially-sized sandwiches are mostly priced below $10, with their curry beef and grilled chicken being absolute top choices. Their vegetarian curry tofu offers a delicious flavor, with refreshing lemongrass. They also do fast and easy take-out if you’re cramming for exams or heading to an OSU sporting event.
Bodhi Bakery (500 SW 2nd St.) is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch. Not to be confused with their bistro located on 1st street, the cafe has a variety of dishes under the $13 mark. Housemade quiches and avocado toast served on freshly baked sourdough costs about $12. Food portions are nicely sized, making the spot popular with locals and out-of-towners.
China Delight Restaurant and Lounge (325 NW 2nd St.) has affordable and tasty lunches. Served daily from 11:00 am - 3:30 pm, their lunch specials include an entree, along with an option of white, brown, or fried rice, all for under $10. They also feature a vegetarian and gluten-free menu.
Kalamata Bistro at Common Fields (545 SW 3rd St.) is a great spot to grab a bite to eat. The food truck pod features a tap room, outdoor heated seating, and a lively atmosphere. The majority of Kalamata’s dishes are under $13, and my go-to’s are the chicken shawarma and greek salad, which are quite filling. The tabouli and falafel wrap are close second favorites.
Laughing Planet (127 NW 2nd St.) is a good choice for vegans, vegetarians and carnivores alike. Their fresh ingredients and superb pricing is what keeps locals going back. Select from hearty salads, filling bowls, and soups. There’s a nicely sized kid’s menu as well.
New Morning Bakery (219 SW 2nd St.) has been in operation since the 1970’s, serving casual fare, along with fresh baked breads and pastries. Breakfast burritos are $8, and breakfast sandwiches start at under $10. Pastry items vary, but start around $4. A savory quiche starts at $7.95. Best of all, there’s also outdoor seating for pet parents and those who enjoy people watching.
Old World Deli (341 SW 2nd St.), which opened its doors in 1977, is a Corvallis staple. Under new ownership since 2020, they continue the tradition of serving hearty sandwiches and filling salads, along with draft beer. Grilled cheese, tuna melts, and a majority other sandwiches are priced under $13. Check their Facebook page for live entertainment on select nights.
Peacock Bar & Grill (125 SW 2nd St.) has been serving patrons since 1929. The popular sports bar serves food all day. In fact, on Sundays, you’ll find a nicely sized brunch crowd. Burger sliders, mac n cheese with bacon, and a salad and soup are about $10 each. Go during happy hour, Mondays through Saturdays from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. for inexpensive food and drinks.
Squirrel’s Tavern (100 SW 2nd St.) is a lively neighborhood hangout, with billiards, TV’s and live music on occasion. The casual spot just celebrated their 50th year anniversary in 2024. They offer an assortment of burgers, starting at $10. Sandwiches run from $9 and up. Happy hour runs from Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Tacos El Machin (544 SW 4th St.) is an authentic Mexican restaurant and food truck. Most of their items are $10 and under. Choose from a filling burrito or quesadilla for $10. Service is fast and friendly - they also offer beer and margaritas, if you’re in the mood.
Tommy's 4th Street Bar & Grill (350 SW 4th St.) is an affordable dining option, offering huge portion sizes. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you’ll find a diverse menu; they offer everything from salads and wings to steak and pastas. Fettuccini alfredo, breaded cod tenders, and a meatloaf dinner are just some of the mouth-watering items that are just under $13!
