Cheap Eats in Belmont Bronx: Where Locals Feast for Under $15

Post|Published On: March 20, 2026|5.3 min read|

Belmont Bronx is synonymous with Arthur Avenue, the heart of the Bronx's Little Italy. This neighborhood is a hub for cheap eats, where Italian delis and Mexican taquerias coexist, offering meals that keep both wallets and bellies full. Here, the culinary scene is all about authenticity and affordability, with Italian grandmas and local teens alike frequenting these spots. Forget the food influencers; this is where the real Bronx eats happen, with meals under $15 being the norm rather than the exception.

Colima Taqueria

A photo from Colima Taqueria

Colima Taqueria at 731 East 187th Street is a late-night staple, open until 2am. The fluorescent lights cast a harsh glow on steaming birria pots, while the air is thick with cumin and stewed beef. Mexican workers in hi-vis vests and families post-church fill the space, creating a bustling atmosphere. This spot has been drawing crowds since it opened five years ago, specializing in Jalisco-style birria.

Cash is king here, and the ordering process can be chaotic, with staff shouting orders and numbers. “Birria so good I drove from Manhattan at 1am, worth every greasy minute,” one reviewer raves. However, the tiny seating and long waits past midnight are common complaints. Despite this, the quesatacos at $4 and birria ramen at $12 keep the lines long and the customers returning.

For a taste of authentic Mexican birria, Colima Taqueria is unmatched. Visit late at night to avoid the rush, and don't miss the endless consommé refills. This is the place for those seeking genuine flavors without the frills, where the food speaks louder than the decor.

Zero Otto Nove Trattoria

Located at 2357 Arthur Avenue, Zero Otto Nove Trattoria offers a slice of Naples in Belmont. The wood-fired oven's glow complements the checkered tablecloths, while Dean Martin croons in the background. Old Italian men in track suits and families with kids fill the space, all drawn by the promise of authentic Neapolitan pizza.

Named after the owner's father's license plate, this trattoria is a tribute to Belmont's Italian roots. “Pizza so thin and perfect, nonna would approve—this is real Little Italy,” a satisfied customer declares. However, slow service during peak hours can be a downside. No reservations for small parties, so be prepared to wait for a table.

With a coal-fired pizza margherita at $18 and gnocchi at $16, Zero Otto Nove delivers on flavor and authenticity. It's a must for anyone craving a taste of Italy without leaving the Bronx. This is where tradition meets taste, making it a standout in the neighborhood.

Prince Coffee House

Prince Coffee House on Arthur Avenue is a cramped, bustling spot where the espresso machine hisses and the air smells of anise biscotti. Neighborhood elders sip espresso, while delivery guys grab buttery rolls on the go. Run by a Lebanese family since the 1970s, this place serves up Middle Eastern sweets alongside Italian cheese.

Cash only, with orders taken at the counter, this spot is all about quick service and quality. “This greasy spoon coffee hits harder than Starbucks, pure Bronx fuel,” one customer notes. However, some find the pastries stale later in the day. Despite this, the butter roll with coffee at $3 and fresh mozzarella slice at $5 are crowd favorites.

For a caffeine fix and a taste of the Bronx's culinary fusion, Prince Coffee House is the place to be. It's where tradition meets innovation, offering a unique experience in the heart of Belmont.

Ann & Tony's

A photo from Ann & Tony's

Sitting on Arthur Avenue, Ann & Tony's is a dimly lit spot where soft Italian ballads play and the aroma of veal in white wine fills the air. Couples and local families gather here, drawn by the promise of hearty Italian fare. This spot has been a staple since the 1960s, with recipes passed down through generations.

Cash is preferred, and the specials come with no substitutions. “Cozy like eating at zia's, veal falls off bone for cheap,” one diner praises. However, inconsistent sauce seasoning can be a hit or miss. The gnocchi at $14 and veal Colombo at $18 offer great value for money.

Ann & Tony's is a slice of old-world Italy in Belmont, perfect for those seeking comfort food that doesn't break the bank. It's a reminder of why Arthur Avenue remains a culinary stronghold.

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant

A photo from Great Wall Chinese Restaurant

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant at 732 East 187th Street is where steaming woks and buzzing fluorescents set the scene. Latino families and lone diners fill the space, drawn by the promise of American Chinese classics with a twist. This family-run spot has been serving Belmont since the 1990s.

Takeout dominates here, with cash only for small orders. “Best bang-for-buck Chinese in Bronx, feeds four for $20,” raves a satisfied customer. However, some find the food greasy and the phone orders rude. General Tso's chicken at $10 and lo mein at $8 are popular choices.

For those seeking generous portions and bold flavors, Great Wall delivers. It's a testament to Belmont's culinary diversity, offering a taste of China in the Bronx.

Antonio's Trattoria

Antonio's Trattoria at 2370 Belmont Avenue is a red sauce haven where Sinatra tunes and garlic dominate. Retiree bocce players and multi-generational families fill the space, all drawn by the promise of traditional Italian fare. Opened in the 1980s, this spot keeps the Sunday gravy tradition alive.

Seating is first-come, with cash for tabs under $20. “Real deal Italian, cheap and sloppy in the best way,” one diner declares. However, tight tables and sweet sauce can be drawbacks. The eggplant parmigiana at $13 and spaghetti meatballs at $11 are recommended dishes.

Antonio's Trattoria is where tradition and taste collide, offering a genuine Italian experience in Belmont. It's a reminder of why this neighborhood remains a culinary cornerstone.

Hit Colima Taqueria at 1am on Tuesdays for no wait, or visit Arthur Avenue spots like Zero Otto Nove at 2pm when they open. For first-timers, try the quesatacos at Colima or the margherita at Zero Otto Nove. Remember, all listed spots take cash only for bills under $20. Take the 4 train to the 183rd Street station, then enjoy a 7-minute walk to Arthur Avenue or East 187th. Avoid the glitzy Arthur Avenue markets pushing $10 cannoli—overpriced tourist traps. Street parking is free after 6pm on 187th but metered during the day.

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Explore curated New York travel guides, interactive maps, and interactive itinerary builders designed to help you navigate the city’s best restaurants, neighborhoods, attractions, and hidden gems with confidence and ease.