Best Affordable Vietnamese Restaurants in Union Square | Affordable Vietnamese Food

30 restaurants in Best Affordable Vietnamese Restaurants in Union Square | Affordable Vietnamese Food

• LA LA Bakeshop — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: This vibrant bakeshop serves as a fragrant crossroads where the nostalgic aromas of pandan and toasted coconut mingle with the sophisticated artistry of modern Vietnamese patisserie. From the creamy decadence of Vietnamese coffee tiramisu to the intriguing savory-sweet harmony of salted egg roll cakes, every bite offers a playful exploration of Southeast Asian textures and bold, tropical flavors. Whether sipping on a delicate longan jasmine tea or diving into a bowl of rich taro sticky rice, guests are treated to a sensory escape that feels both comforting and refreshingly innovative.
• Long Island Dumplings — Chinese · rated 5/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with translucent crystal shrimp and vibrant, jewel-toned dumplings like the earthy Beets by Jay and the verdant Green Jade. The air hums with energy as diners tear into pillowy steamed buns and shatter the golden, crispy shells of savory spring rolls, creating a modern sanctuary where traditional dim sum is reimagined with a playful, contemporary flair.
• Baohub — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Located in the heart of Gramercy Park, Baohub offers a delightful dining experience with handmade, creative Chinese cuisine. Featuring a menu filled with delicious options such as soup dumplings, beef lo mein, and phoenix buns, this casual eatery is perfect for family dining or a quick bite. Baohub caters to dine-in, takeout, and delivery, making it convenient for any occasion. Enjoy a meal at Baohub, where quality meets convenience.
• Yum Cha — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic procession, unveiling translucent shrimp dumplings and honey-glazed pork buns that perfume the air with ginger and five-spice. The space hums with the convivial energy of shared stories and clinking porcelain, creating a vibrant backdrop for a leisurely feast where the ancient art of tea-drinking meets a kaleidoscope of handcrafted delicacies.
• Strip House — Steakhouse · rated 4.6/5: Steeped in a sultry, old-world glamour, this iconic destination envelops guests in a sea of crimson velvet and vintage black-and-white photography that whispers of a provocative, bygone era. The air hums with sophisticated energy as expertly charred, salt-crusted prime cuts meet the table alongside decadent, multi-layered desserts, creating a sensory feast that is as visually striking as it is culinarily indulgent.
• Milu — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Discover Milu, a fast-casual Chinese eatery nestled in the heart of the Flatiron District. With a relaxed ambiance, it’s perfect for family meals or a quick solo bite. The menu boasts comfort food staples like brisket, pineapple buns, and soft serve, along with vegetarian and vegan options. Enjoy a delightful meal at Milu, where welcoming staff and reasonable prices ($10-$20) make every visit enjoyable.
• Sao Mai — Vietnamese · rated 4.6/5: Sao Mai is a charming, family-owned Vietnamese restaurant in the East Village, perfect for lunch or dinner. Known for its cozy atmosphere, the menu offers a delightful range of comfort food including pho, bun bo hue, and spring rolls. With healthy and vegetarian options, plus a great selection of tea, coffee, wine, and beer, it's a fantastic spot for both families and individuals seeking quick, delicious bites.
• Momofuku Noodle Bar — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Steaming bowls of rich, umami-laden broth take center stage in this high-energy space, where the rhythmic clatter of the open kitchen and the warmth of light wood create a vibrant, urban pulse. Diners huddle over communal tables to savor the perfect tension of hand-pulled noodles and the legendary, pillowy softness of pork buns that melt away with every savory bite. It is a sensory celebration of bold flavors and culinary craft, where the tradition of the ramen shop is reimagined through a lens of modern, soulful innovation.
• Madame Vo — Vietnamese · rated 4.5/5: This vibrant East Village sanctuary pulses with energy, wrapping diners in an atmosphere where modern chic meets the soulful warmth of a traditional Vietnamese home. The air is thick with the intoxicating perfume of star anise and long-simmered bone broth, setting the stage for a feast of colossal, tender short ribs and crisp herbs that dance against deep, savory glazes. Every bite feels like a personal tribute to heritage, blending bold, funky notes with delicate textures for a dining experience that is both intensely nostalgic and thrillingly contemporary.
• Hanoi House — Vietnamese · rated 4.5/5: This intimate escape captures the soul of Vietnam’s capital, where the air hums with conversation and the intoxicating fragrance of star anise and charred lemongrass. Vibrant plates of herb-strewn bun cha and bowls of deeply restorative, slow-simmered pho bring the bold, balanced flavors of the Hanoi streets to life in a space that feels both rustic and refined.
• Ippudo NY — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Nestled in the heart of New York's East Village, Ippudo NY is a must-visit Japanese noodle shop offering an array of delectable ramen, buns, and small plates. With a cool and inviting atmosphere, this popular eatery impresses with its diverse menu, including acclaimed pork buns and flavorful ramen. Ideal for groups and known for its impeccable service, Ippudo NY provides a memorable dining experience complemented by a fine selection of wine and beer. Visit them at 65 4th Ave or call +1 212-388-0088 for reservations.
• Dim Sum Chelsea — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Clouds of fragrant steam rise from stacked bamboo baskets in this chic urban retreat, where the clinking of porcelain and the aroma of toasted sesame create a lively, rhythmic backdrop. Each delicate, hand-pleated parcel reveals a symphony of savory fillings, from translucent shrimp har gow to pillowy pork buns, offering a vibrant communal experience that celebrates the timeless art of the Chinese tea lunch.
• Oramen — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Located in the heart of Chelsea, Oramen is a cozy Japanese restaurant known for its fresh sushi, flavorful ramen, and delightful steamed buns. With a welcoming atmosphere, this casual spot offers happy hour specials and vegetarian options, making it perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. Guests often praise the fast service, friendly staff, and reasonably priced dishes, typically spending between $20-$30.
• Saigon Shack — Vietnamese · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Saigon Shack is a casual and cozy Vietnamese eatery known for its substantial portions and quick service. Perfect for lunch or dinner, the menu features traditional dishes like pho, banh mi, and grilled lemongrass chicken, catering to both meat lovers and vegetarians. With reasonable prices and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a delightful spot to enjoy authentic Vietnamese comfort food. Cash only.
• Paul's "Da Burger Joint" — American · rated 4.3/5: Step into a nostalgic slice of Americana where the rhythmic sizzle of the flat-top grill and the intoxicating aroma of searing beef define the bustling, no-frills atmosphere. Thick, juice-dripping patties come crowned with molten cheese and crisp toppings, served on toasted buns in a space that hums with the soulful, unpretentious energy of a classic neighborhood haunt.
• Indochine — Vietnamese · rated 4.3/5: Indochine transports diners to the heart of Southeast Asia, where the fragrant steam of slow-simmered pho mingles with the bright, zesty crunch of garden-fresh herbs. The space glows with a warm, inviting energy, offering a sensory journey through delicate rice paper rolls and savory grilled meats that perfectly balance bold spices with cooling textures. This vibrant sanctuary celebrates Vietnamese culinary heritage, weaving together tradition and artistry in every aromatic bowl and crisp, colorful plate.
• Great Burrito — Mexican · rated 4.3/5: The air at Great Burrito hums with the rhythmic chop of fresh cilantro and the savory sizzle of marinated meats hitting the grill, drawing diners into a space alive with vibrant energy. Each hand-rolled creation arrives as a warm, heavy bundle of bold flavors, where tender slow-cooked fillings and zesty house-made salsas collide to deliver a soulful, sun-drenched taste of Mexico.
• Hello Saigon — Vietnamese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled on 180 Bleecker St, New York, Hello Saigon offers a warm, brick-lined ambiance where you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese staples like pho and banh mi. This casual eatery also features a beer and wine bar and welcomes dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Ideal for both lunchtime and dinner, Hello Saigon is child-friendly and perfect for groups. With a 4.3 rating from 542 reviews, it's a delightful spot to savor Vietnamese flavors.
• The Pho 2 — Vietnamese · rated 4.2/5: Steam rises in fragrant plumes from oversized bowls of slow-simmered broth, where the delicate scent of star anise and charred ginger fills the air with a promise of comfort. This vibrant neighborhood destination invites guests to customize their experience with heaps of fresh herbs and zesty lime, delivering the soul-warming essence of Vietnamese tradition in every savory, noodle-filled bite.
• Tim Ho Wan — Chinese · rated 4.1/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic dance at this bustling dim sum sanctuary, where the air is perfumed with the savory-sweet aroma of legendary baked BBQ pork buns. Each bite-sized treasure, from translucent, hand-pleated dumplings to golden-crusted pastries, showcases a masterclass in Cantonese precision amidst a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere. It is a place where the humble art of the dumpling is elevated to a sensory celebration, inviting diners to share in a continuous parade of meticulously crafted small plates.
• Tim Ho Wan East Village — Chinese · rated 4.1/5: Nestled in New York's East Village, Tim Ho Wan offers an inviting dining experience centered around their famed hand-crafted dim sum. Specializing in items like the world-famous BBQ pork buns, this branch of the renowned Hong Kong-based chain brings both quality and tradition to the table. Enjoy a diverse menu that includes standout dishes like siu mai and bean curd wrapped shrimp, all paired with quick, attentive service. Open daily for brunch through dinner-perfect for satisfying your dim sum cravings.
• FIKA 7th Avenue — Scandinavian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched sanctuary, the air is thick with the comforting scent of freshly ground espresso and warm cardamom buns. The sleek, minimalist interior offers a serene escape from the urban rush, where guests linger over artisanal chocolates and artfully prepared open-faced sandwiches. It is a space that celebrates the Swedish art of the coffee break, inviting you to slow down and savor every buttery crumb and velvety sip.
• Please Don't Tell — American · rated 4/5: Hidden behind a vintage phone booth, this legendary speakeasy invites guests into a dimly lit sanctuary of plush leather and exposed brick where the art of the cocktail is celebrated with clandestine flair. The experience pairs sophisticated, hand-crafted libations with elevated comfort food, creating an atmosphere that hums with the quiet thrill of a well-kept urban secret.
• Madame Vo — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: This vibrant destination captures the soulful essence of Vietnamese home cooking, wrapping guests in an atmosphere that feels both chic and deeply nostalgic. The kitchen hums with the energy of sizzling savory crepes and the fragrant toss of salt-and-pepper squid, while delicate rice paper rolls and zesty pomelo salads showcase a masterful balance of crunch, herb-forward freshness, and bold umami. It is a place where traditional family recipes are reimagined with modern flair, offering a sensory journey through the heart of Saigon.
• Indochine — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Step into a lush, atmospheric sanctuary where the vibrant energy of Southeast Asia meets timeless sophistication, enveloping guests in a world of tropical elegance and moody, evocative lighting. The kitchen artfully balances delicate textures and bold spices, from the refreshing crunch of herb-filled summer rolls and zesty beef salads to the irresistible golden heat of salt-and-pepper rock shrimp. Each plate, whether a silken Vietnamese ravioli or a bright branzino crudo, serves as a fragrant journey through a landscape of exotic flavors and refined culinary artistry.
• Singlish — Chinese, Indian, Thai, Vietnamese, · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant space that pulses with the electric energy of a Singaporean hawker center, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of charred chilies and fragrant lemongrass. Woks hiss and sizzle as chefs masterfully blend bold, multicultural flavors into soul-warming bowls of laksa and perfectly spiced street food, inviting guests to embark on a sensory journey through the heart of Southeast Asia. The experience is a playful celebration of heritage and modern flair, where every bite tells a story of cultural fusion in a setting that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
• Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant — Caribbean · rated 3.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Laurelton, Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant delights locals with its vibrant, fast-casual dining experience. Specializing in authentic Caribbean and Jamaican dishes, this family-friendly spot offers staples like jerk chicken, oxtail, and curried goat, alongside vegetarian options and Beyond Meat. With an inviting atmosphere and delicious desserts such as carrot cake and spice bun, it's a go-to for a taste of home. Perfect for takeout!
• PHO' Seng — Vietnamese · rated 3.9/5: Located at 174 2nd Ave in New York, PHO' Seng is a welcoming Vietnamese restaurant perfect for casual dining. Open daily from 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, this eatery offers a variety of Vietnamese staples including pho and banh mi sandwiches. With a decent 3.9 rating from 34 reviews, PHO' Seng is family-friendly and also offers takeout and delivery options. Notably, it accepts credit cards and serves vegetarian food and coffee. Contact them at +1 212-254-2868.
• Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant — Caribbean · rated 3.8/5: Nestled on Mermaid Avenue near Coney Island, Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant is your go-to spot for an array of Jamaican and Caribbean comfort food. From flavorful jerk chicken and beef patties to vegetarian and vegan options, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the bakery items like spice bun and hard dough bread. Ideal for kids and solo diners, meals range from $10-20. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant — Caribbean · rated 3.7/5: Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant offers a vibrant selection of traditional Jamaican favorites for dine-in and takeout. Located at 630 Rockaway Turnpike, Lawrence, this fast-casual eatery is perfect for families and solo diners. Popular dishes include jerk chicken, oxtail, and a variety of vegetarian options. Don't miss their delightful bakery items like spice bun and carrot cake. Conveniently situated near JFK Airport, it's a great spot for a quick meal.