What Are the Best Cheap Places to Eat in Orlando for Kids & Families?

Beefy King – Orlando

A true Orlando classic, Beefy King is one of the most dependable family restaurants in Orlando when you want filling food at honest prices. The sandwiches are generous, easy to share, and under $10. Insider tip: Popular Beefy King gets busy, but the line moves quickly; plan ahead, it closes at 3pm and isn’t open on Sundays.

Blaze Pizza – Multiple Locations

Blaze Pizza is one of those reliable wins when you need something fast, customizable, and truly budget-friendly. Their 11-inch classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas come in under $10. Insider tip: Kids’ meals are $6–$8 range make it easy to please everyone without overspending.

IKEA Swedish Restaurant – Orlando

Yes, IKEA counts! And local parents know it’s one of the most surprisingly affordable restaurants for kids in town. Kids’ meals are cheap and picky eaters usually find something they like (meatballs or mac and cheese for the win). Insider tip: Eat before shopping so kids aren’t melting down halfway through the store.

Lawless Subs – Altamonte Springs

This local sandwich shop serves some of the best-value subs around. Portions are generous, prices stay around $10, and one sub can easily feed two small kids. The menu is straightforward, making it great for picky eaters. Insider tip: Check hours ahead of arrival as Lawless closes after lunch on certain days (and on Sundays).

Lazy Moon Pizza – Multiple Locations

Lazy Moon is a lifesaver for cheap eats! The oversized pizza slices are legendary (one slice can easily feed two younger kids) and keeps picky eaters happy. Insider tip: Families can opt for the kids combo, which includes a kiddie-cut cheese pizza and apple juice for around $8.

Portillo’s – Multiple Locations

Portillo’s delivers generous portions at family-friendly prices, especially if you stick to hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, or kids’ combos, all available for under $10. Insider tip: Grab a milkshake if you want a sweet treat.

SoDough Square Pizza – Multiple Locations

SoDough is known for Detroit-style square pizzas, but their lunch specials are where families can score a real deal. At lunchtime (Tuesday-Friday), grab personal-sized pizzas or slices for under $10. Insider tip: The menu features coney dogs and plain dogs, but note, they often sell out daily, so we recommend arriving early!

Zaza Cuban Comfort Food – Multiple Locations

Zaza has locations all across Central Florida, serving pressed Cuban sandwiches, all-day breakfast options, and more. It’s best for quick meals rather than lingering, which honestly works well with hungry kids. Insider tip: Adults shouldn’t miss Zaza’s artisan roasted coffee drinks, while kids will love the fresh-baked desserts.

There are great spots in The Florida Mall to get a quick, cheap eat! Photo by author

Which Cheap Local Spots Are Hidden Gems (and Worth the Trip)?

Cubans on the Run – Casselberry

This is a hidden gem for families looking for cheap places to eat in Orlando outside the tourist areas. Meals are filling and affordable, with several options under $10, including the popular Cuban sandwich, empanadas, and stuffed potato balls. Insider tip: Breakfast is the sleeper hit here -- affordable, quick, and less crowded.

East End Market – Orlando

This food hall and market in Audubon Park offers a range of local eats and artisan goods. Insider tip: Families can snack on baked treats, fresh coffee, and casual bites while exploring unique shops, all without the cost of a full sit-down meal. 

Old Sugar Mill Pancake House – DeLeon Springs

This is one of the most unique and affordable meals you can have with kids near Orlando. Families cook pancakes right at the table, which kids love! Insider tip: Join the waitlist on the way, it gets busy. Bring swimsuits and enjoy the spring afterward for a full day of family fun!

RELATED: Top 10 Natural Springs in Florida Near Orlando

Plant Street Market – Winter Garden

This food hall has more than 20 vendors serving a variety of options, which is perfect for pleasing a variety of palates. Families can sample everything from mac ‘n’ cheese and barbecue to fresh oysters. Insider tip: The outdoor, pet-friendly patio and live entertainment make it a fun stop for all ages.

Sushi Yummy – Florida Mall

Located at The Florida Mall, Sushi Yummy uses a conveyor-belt system where small plates of sushi circle the restaurant, making it a fun, interactive meal for families. The color-coded plates range from about $3-$6 each, so parents can keep spending in check while kids enjoy picking what looks good as it rolls by. Insider tip: Plan extra time to explore all that The Florida Mall has to offer.

Are There Any Cheap Kid-Friendly Restaurants Near Major Attractions?

Chicken Guy! – Disney Springs

Famous for its crispy chicken tenders and signature dipping sauces, Chicken Guy! is a fun, affordable option for families. Most meals stay under $10, and the variety of sauces keeps picky eaters entertained. Insider tip: There is a location at Disney Springs, as well as other locations around Orlando.

Voodoo Doughnuts is a funky taste sensation that's sweet and delicious! Photo courtesy Universal Orlando

Voodoo Doughnuts - Universal CityWalk

For a sweet treat while perusing CityWalk, try a delicious doughnut from Voodoo. Insider tip: Order one of the wackier items, like the Strawberry Go-Tart, Voodoo Bubble, or Churro Cheesecake.

Earl of Sandwich – Disney Springs

This classic counter-service spot, also located at Disney Springs, is one of the few places near the parks where you can get a hearty meal under $10. Hot sandwiches are easy to split between younger kids and perfect for refueling while shopping. Insider tip: Go right as lunch opens to beat the rush and grab a table with stroller space.

Hot Dog Hall of Fame – Universal CityWalk

Located at Universal CityWalk, Hot Dog Hall of Fame is a fun, budget-friendly stop when theme-park hunger hits. Most combos stay between $9-$12, and kids love the cheesy, ketchup-friendly options. Insider tip: It’s quick and casual, which is ideal after a day at Universal Studios.

What Should Families Order to Stay Under $10?

To keep meals affordable, share large portions like pizza slices, sandwiches, and subs. Lunch menus are almost always cheaper than dinner, and breakfast plates are often the best value. Skip fountain drinks, which can double the cost, and don’t be afraid to order one adult entrée plus an extra side to feed two kids.

Which Popular Restaurants Aren’t Worth It (and Why)?

Many highly themed “family restaurants” near tourist areas look affordable but aren’t. Portions are small, kids’ meals are overpriced, and you’re paying for atmosphere rather than food. If the menu feels designed for tourists, it’s usually not a great value for families.

Insider Tips for Eating Out Cheap with Kids in Orlando

• Eat early to avoid crowds and long waits, especially with younger kids.
• Follow local restaurants on social media for flash deals and specials.
• Food halls are great for variety without ordering multiple full meals.
• Keep snacks on hand helps avoid impulse orders.

Kids can be entertained while they wait for their orders at Earl of Sandwich at Disney Springs. Photo by author

Cheap Eats in Orlando FAQ

What are the best cheap restaurants in Orlando for families?
Local favorites like Beefy King, Lazy Moon Pizza, and Portillo’s offer reliable meals under $10 that kids actually enjoy.

Where can kids eat free or cheap in Orlando?
Many local spots offer weekday kids’ deals. Check out our roundup of Orlando Kids Eat Free Deals for Every Day of the Week!

What kind of food can families get for under $10 in Orlando?
Pizza, tacos, Cuban sandwiches, burgers, breakfast plates, and deli sandwiches are the most budget-friendly options.

Are there good, cheap restaurants near Disney?
Yes! Earl of Sandwich at Disney Springs is one of the most consistent under-$10 options near the parks. Chicken Guy! at Disney Springs also offers sandwiches, chicken strips, and kids meals for affordable prices.

How can families save money eating out in Orlando?
Stick to lunch, share meals, order water instead of soda/juice, skip tourist-heavy sit-down restaurants, and look for spots locals frequent.