Found on street corners all across Chicago, tamales are the ultimate cheap bites. Grab a bunch of plump, airy ones stuffed with chicken, pork, cheese, beans, or fruits from this unassuming storefront in Rogers Park. The kitchen also makes large Oaxacan-style tamales consisting of masa, chicken, and mole wrapped in banana leaf.

Located on Devon Avenue and over by UIC, Ghareeb Nawaz serves tasty Indian food at low, low prices. Most dishes are less than six dollars and they include biryani, curries, kebabs, and grilled specialties like frontier chicken. Portions are sizable so even if folks have a big appetite, they should leave satisfied.

A few bucks are all diners need to shell out to enjoy Lebanese cooking at this Andersonville storefront. The menu is brief but filled with Middle Eastern staples like hummus, falafel, stuffed grape leaves, shawarma, and kebabs. The lentil soup is also ideal on a cold day.

Sushi doesn’t always have to be expensive. At Lawrence Fish Market, the selection of sashimi, nigiri, and maki rolls are sold at surprisingly low prices. Seating is limited but it’s a small sacrifice for such a good bargain.

Open until 4 a.m. (or 5 a.m. on the weekends), this no-frills joint is where many folks favor for some late-night grease. The simple menu offers fried shrimp, Depression Dogs, and smashed burgers inspired by In-N-Out. They’re delicious at any hour of the day but even better after last call, especially when the prices are factored in. There’s also the original location in Bucktown that will be relocating over the summer.

Sultan’s Market is a Wicker Park essential offering Middle Eastern cuisine at dirt-cheap prices. Have a light snack of hummus and baba ghanoush or devour hearty sandwiches loaded with falafel, shawarma, and more. There's also bountiful salad and hot bar, and guests are welcome to bring their own alcohol. A second location is over in Lincoln Park.

Look no further than BIG & little’s for seafood tacos. Fillings range from fried whitefish to shrimp and soft shell crab. Don't miss the poke taco, featuring sashimi-grade fish, or the deep fried grilled cheese sandwich. There are additional locations in Lakeview, Wicker Park, and Logan Square.

Get some grocery shopping done while noshing on one of J.P. Graziano’s outstanding Italian subs. Each one boasts fresh, quality meats and cheeses on D’Amato’s Bakery or Publican Quality bread. Featured sandwiches include the porchetta and the house specialty, “Mr. G” (hot sopresatta, prosciutto, genoa salami).

A pioneer of Chicago's historic Maxwell Street Market, Jim's claims to be the originator of the Polish sausage sandwich. It’s been around for more than 70 years and diners can get a juicy and delicious Polish, pork chop sandwich, hot dog, and more at any hour of the day — plus they’re accompanied by free fries.

In the heart of Chinatown Square sits Chi Cafe, an affordable, late-night spot for reliable Chinese food. On the menu are classics such as lo mein, fried rice, noodle soups, and a wide selection of beef, chicken, pork, and seafood entrees. The sizzling beef tenderloin is always a good choice, as are the happy hour specials offered during the day.

One of Chicago’s best taquerias resides inside a small grocery store in Little Village. La Chaparrita focuses on tacos de fritangas, or “fried tacos” that are popular in Mexico City and cooked in a metal pan called a charola. Options include offal cuts like lengua, cabeza, and tripa — crispy pieces of cow intestines.

Mouthwatering goat is practically the only thing on the menu at Birrieria Zaragoza but diners don’t need much more. The Zaragoza family cooks up a regional variant of barbacoa that hails from Jalisco, Mexico, and the results are tender bites of goat bathing in flavorful consommé. Order a small or large plate and make tacos with the corn tortillas.

This successful chain has locations on the South Shore, Bronzeville, and Oak Park. The Hennessey wings are well known, but there are several special combos, from catfish nuggets to perch, which are affordable. 

Jamaican cuisine flies under the radar but follow the aromatic smells in Chatham to this carryout spot for fantastic jerk chicken. It’s rubbed in a variety of spices and seasonings, smoked, and served with sides like candied yams and caribbean-style corn.

Head to South Deering on the far South Side to experience this classic Eater 38 establishment. The James-Beard-honored roadside shack smokes its seafood on-site. Salmon, sable, sturgeon, and trout are just a few of the fish options, while other popular items include fried oysters and fried shrimp battered in a secret family recipe. Bring cash and be prepared to eat on the curb or in the car. It’s a must-visit for all locals.