Seven cheap Canberra eats for when you want some bang for your buck
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Trying to save some money but still want to treat yourself to something nice once in a blue moon? We’ve found seven cheap eats for when you want some bang for your buck.
Located all over Canberra, from pub fare to tacos there’s plenty to choose from. And for an extra treat, we’ve also included three restaurants to check out when you want to treat yourself…just cause.
UCBar (Bruce)
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A staple of food and entertainment at the University of Canberra, UCBar has meal deals from Monday to Friday every week, ranging from Plant-based Monday to Nacho Friday. With prices not going over $16, (and events such as Bottomless Brunch, Trivia, and Mic Nights happening throughout the year) it is a must-visit.
Open Monday to Friday, for lunch and dinner and open Saturday for lunch | 20 Telita Street, Bruce | ucx.canberra.edu.au
Melted (Fyshwick)
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Located in Fyshwick, Melted is a toastie lovers’ dream with the cheesy delights ranging from $7 to $16. However, Melted does not do your average toasties—how doesMi goreng noodles, chilli jam, and fried eggs sound? However, a straightforward cheese toastie is also available. The menu does frequently change, so get your taste buds ready!
Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast and lunch | U 2 / 3 Pirie Street, Fyshwick | meltedtoasties.com
Loquita (Civic)
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Loquita is a Canberra institution, located in the heart of Civic (the city for non-locals). Loquita’s $4 taco Tuesday and three tacos for $15 every other day (and late-night close) makes it a perfect spot for those craving some cheap eats after a night out. As well as having DJ Friday and Saturday, you will never have to leave for the next dance floor.
Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner | 17 Garema Place, Canberra City | loquita.com.au
Badger & Co (Australian National University)
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This restaurant located on the ANU campus is much loved by the students, and with prices ranging from $9 to $20 it has something for everyone. Vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available, so it can accommodate many palates!
Open Monday to Saturday for brunch, lunch and dinner | 156-11, Joplin Lane, Kambri Precinct Australian National University| badgerandco.com.au
Lab (Australian National University)
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As an additional ANU campus restaurant with similar available options this is another student loved eatery. Prices are slightly more expensive from $9 to $25, with the average meal costing about $20. This university restaurant may be more for a treat-yourself day, than a regular eating spot. But it’s worth it!
Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner) | Shop 154-11, University Avenue, Australian National University, Kambri | facebook.com/labatanu
Utopia Vegan (Dickson)
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For our veggie lovers out there, Utopia Vegan is an all-vegan restaurant. With Vietnamese-inspired dishes, it is a great spot for those to try a vegan meal for the first time and others to get their Asian food fix. No dish is over $19.50, meaning the bank will not be broken!
Open Monday to Sunday for dinner | Dickson Plaza Shop 5 / 28 Challis Street, Woolley Street, Dickson | utopiavegan.com.au
Au Lac Dickson Vegan Cuisine (Woden and Dickson)
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Another Asian vegan restaurant, located in Dickson and in Woden this is a spot that does not go over $23 for a meal. For those who may be apprehensive about vegan food, do not worry because you will forget you are not eating meat. Another great vegan option for those who are struggling to find meat-free options in other restaurants!
Open Monday to Sunday for dinner and Friday to Sunday for lunch | 4/35-39 Wooley Street, Dickson | aulac-restaurant.com.au
And for when you want to treat yourself…
Cartel Taqueria (Queanbeyan)
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If you want to experience fancy tacos look no further than Cartel Taqueria. From pork shoulder, Birria beef, battered flathead, and king prawn—you will forget about what a taco used to be. With veggie and kids’ options available it is fit for any food critic!
Open Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner | Ray Morton Place, 4 Trinculo Place, Queanbeyan East | @cartel.tacos
Space Kitchen (Woden)
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When you want to experience dessert on another level, then Space Kitchen is for you. Ranging from cakes, mini treats, breakfast, and lunch dishes Space Kitchen is for the savoury connoisseur to the sweet tooth. Check out their Willy Wonka afternoon tea if you really want to spoil yourself with packages either being $49 for all ages and $59 if you want a sneaky bevvie at the start.
Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast and lunch | 12 Furzer Street (corner of Furzer Street and, Worgan Street, Phillip | space-kitchen.com.au
Lazy Su (Braddon)
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Have money to spend, and are craving Japanese food? Lazy Su is the restaurant for you. Prices range from $15 to $44, with dishes such as Wagyu Cheesesteak Spring Rolls and Spicy Grandma’s tofu – your taste buds will thank you for the new experience. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available!
Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner and Friday to Sunday for lunch | 1/3 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | lazy-su.com.au
Feature image: Ben Calvert Photography.
