Best Cheap Eats Restaurants in Livermore (94550)
6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.5
Japanese rice bowls built with crisp tempura, teriyaki, and katsu over fluffy rice, plus miso and sides. Efficient service and sub-$20 combos make it a reliable value.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Katsu Don, Tempura Udon + Mini Don Combo, Beef Teriyaki Don
What makes it special: Well-executed Japanese donburi with speedy ticket times.
#2
The Press
8.3
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Daytime artisan café using quality breads and local produce for pressed sandwiches and salads. It’s the downtown move for a satisfying lunch under $20.
Must-Try Dishes:
Italian Pressed Sandwich, Turkey Avocado on Ciabatta, Tomato Basil Soup
What makes it special: Thoughtful pressed sandwiches with quality bread and produce.
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Counter-service taquería downtown known for trompo-cut al pastor and handmade tortillas. Quick ticket times and late hours make it a reliable move after events on First Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor street tacos, Quesabirria with consomé, Carne asada tacos (hand-pressed tortillas)
What makes it special: Fresh-pressed tortillas and hot-off-the-trompo al pastor until late.
8.1
Retro counter slinging smashed patties, fries, and shakes at fair prices. A local go-to for fast, made-to-order burgers without the fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Char Burger, Garlic Fries, Chocolate Shake
What makes it special: Made-to-order char-griddled burgers with classic sides.
#5
Donut Wheel
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Sweet Treats Escapes
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
24-hour donut counter turning out old-school raised, cake, and apple fritter classics at true bargain prices. Locals use it for early coffee runs and late-night cravings alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Apple Fritter, Glazed Old Fashioned, Ham & Cheese Croissant
What makes it special: Round-the-clock donuts with decades of local nostalgia.
Worthy Picks
Counter-service spot for pho, vermicelli bowls, and under-$10 banh mi on East Avenue. Portions are generous and the line moves quickly at lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Grilled Pork Banh Mi, Beef Pho (Pho Tai), Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli
What makes it special: Well-priced banh mi and pho with fast counter service.