Top 7 Affordable Restaurants Near FSU
Explore 7 affordable dining options near FSU, offering delicious meals under $15, perfect for students and budget-conscious diners.
Looking for cheap eats near Florida State University? Here are 7 great restaurants where you can grab a meal for under $15, all close to campus and the BOB Hotels Tallahassee. Whether you’re into Japanese hibachi, Italian comfort food, or late-night calzones, these spots have you covered.
Quick Overview:
- Roboto Tokyo Grill: Hibachi meals starting at $8.55.
- Bella Bella: Italian classics like Eggplant Parmesan for around $10.
- Jasmine Café: Sushi rolls (2 for $10) and bento boxes under $15.
- Merv's: Creative tater tots and grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Maple Street Biscuit Company: Southern-style biscuits with gravy for $10-$15.
- Doughlicious: Calzones starting at $6, open until 3 a.m.
- Tequila Tribe: Mexican dishes like tacos ($13-$15) and quesadillas ($8-$14).
Each spot is budget-friendly, student-approved, and within easy reach of FSU. Read on for more details about their menus and why they’re local favorites.
20 Best Restaurants in Tallahassee, FL
1. Roboto Tokyo Grill
Roboto Tokyo Grill is a go-to spot for affordable Japanese food, especially popular among students and visitors. Known for its speedy service and budget-friendly prices, the restaurant specializes in hibachi-style meals like chicken hibachi (starting at $8.55) and vegetable hibachi (priced under $10). Combo meals are also available for less than $15, offering plenty of options for both meat lovers and vegetarians.
Menu Highlights
| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Chicken Hibachi | From $8.55 |
| Vegetable Hibachi | Under $10 |
| Combo Meals | Under $15 |
Why People Love It
The quick service and affordable menu make Roboto Tokyo Grill a top choice for a fast, satisfying meal. Its spot on the list of top 10 restaurants near FSU campus [1] and its proximity to the university have cemented its popularity with students. Guests staying at BOB Hotels Tallahassee also find it a convenient dining option.
If you're in the mood for Italian instead, Bella Bella is another great budget-friendly choice near FSU.
2. Bella Bella
Bella Bella offers a cozy spot near FSU to enjoy Italian comfort food without breaking the bank. Known for its welcoming vibe and freshly prepared dishes, this local gem has become a go-to for students and locals alike.
| Popular Dishes | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Eggplant Parmesan | Made fresh daily | Around $10 |
| Roasted Veggie Lasagna | House specialty | Around $10 |
| Fresh Pasta Dishes | Various options | Under $12 |
With most main dishes priced around $10, Bella Bella combines quality, portion size, and affordability. Their meals feature fresh ingredients and are carefully prepared to deliver a satisfying dining experience.
Thanks to its convenient location near campus and BOB Hotels Tallahassee, Bella Bella is a favorite for its friendly service and consistent quality [1]. Whether you're craving a hearty lasagna or a flavorful pasta dish, this spot has you covered.
For those seeking something a bit different, Jasmine Café offers another affordable and unique dining option close to FSU.
3. Jasmine Café
Jasmine Café, situated downtown, is a go-to spot for Japanese cuisine at wallet-friendly prices. From sushi rolls to bento boxes, the menu is packed with fresh and flavorful options.
Menu Highlights
| Popular Items | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul Roll + California Roll | A student combo favorite | $10 for both |
| Bento Boxes | A full meal with tasty sides | Under $15 |
| Stir Fry Dishes | Made with fresh veggies and protein | $10-12 |
| Steamed Dumplings | Handmade daily | Under $8 |
| Nigiri Selection | Fresh fish, served by the piece | $3-4 per piece |
Affordable Dining
One of the café's biggest draws is its 2 for $10 sushi roll deal [1]. It’s a crowd-pleaser for anyone looking to enjoy quality sushi without breaking the bank.
A Campus Favorite
Jasmine Café has become a hit among FSU students, thanks to its combination of fresh ingredients and affordable pricing. As one FSU junior put it:
The 2 for $10 special offers both quality and affordability [1]
For those who aren’t sushi fans, consider checking out Merv's for hearty meals with a local twist. Both spots offer great options for dining on a budget.
4. Merv's
Tucked near Westcott Fountain in the All Saints District, Merv's is a go-to spot for affordable comfort food served in a laid-back atmosphere. It's a hit with FSU students and locals alike, thanks to its fun and creative menu options [1].
Menu Highlights
Merv's takes tater tots to the next level with some standout varieties:
- Truffle Tots: Tossed in truffle oil and herbs for a flavorful twist.
- West Coast Tots: Loaded with California-inspired toppings.
- Drunken Tots: Smothered in their special house-made sauce.
Beyond tots, their menu also features inventive grilled cheese sandwiches, with choices that cater to a range of dietary needs [1].
Prices
Merv's is easy on the wallet, offering generous portions at prices that work for students and budget-conscious diners [1].
Why People Love It
A welcoming vibe and dog-friendly outdoor seating make Merv's stand out among local eateries. Combine that with its affordable comfort food and prime location, and it's no wonder it's a favorite in the FSU community [1].
Looking for another great spot for breakfast or brunch near FSU? Check out Maple Street Biscuit Company.
5. Maple Street Biscuit Company
Maple Street Biscuit Company, located near FSU, is a go-to spot for southern-inspired dishes served in a warm and inviting setting.
Menu Highlights and Pricing
Their standout dish features soft, flaky biscuits topped with sausage-infused gravy - a flavorful spin on classic southern comfort food [1]. Beyond breakfast staples, they also serve fresh salads in charming glass jars, offering options for a range of preferences.
Most menu items fall between $10-$15, with generous portions that deliver great quality for the price [1][2].
Why It's a Favorite
The restaurant's charm lies in its hearty southern dishes, affordable prices, and cozy atmosphere. FSU junior Destiny Kruzel shared:
"The gravy has sausage in it which makes it so unique and the biscuits are fluffy and mouth-watering" [1]
Its close proximity to FSU, combined with filling meals and budget-friendly pricing, makes it a top pick for students and locals alike [1].
If you're craving dessert or something a little different, Doughlicious is another wallet-friendly option near FSU.
6. Doughlicious
Conveniently located near FSU and BOB Hotels, Doughlicious is a go-to spot for students, visitors, and anyone on Call Street looking for a quick and filling bite.
Menu Highlights
One standout is the 'Calzone of the Day,' featuring creative flavor combinations starting at just $6. For those who prefer to customize, the Vegielicious calzone is a popular choice, loaded with fresh ingredients like broccoli, mushrooms, tomatoes, black olives, and a special cheese blend [1].
Affordable Pricing
Calzones are priced between $6 and $10, with vegetarian options available at the lower end of the range [1]. This makes Doughlicious a great option for those who want hearty meals without spending too much.
Why People Love It
Doughlicious is known for its fast service and generous portions. Open until 3 a.m., it’s a favorite for late-night snacks or post-event meals [1]. The combination of quality, convenience, and affordability keeps students and visitors coming back.
For another budget-friendly option near FSU with bold flavors, check out Tequila Tribe.
7. Tequila Tribe
Tequila Tribe, located downtown near FSU, is a vibrant spot known for serving Mexican dishes packed with flavor at wallet-friendly prices.
Menu and Pricing
The menu features a variety of Mexican favorites, including quesadillas, rice bowls, and tacos, with prices typically ranging from $8 to $15. Highlights include Shrimp a La Tequila and Enchiladas Ranchers, while premium options like the Mar Y Tierra Skirt Steak are available for $18.
| Dish Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Quesadillas & Bowls | $8-14 |
| Tacos | $13-15 |
| Specialty Dishes | $15-18 |
Why It's Popular
Tequila Tribe is a hit with FSU students and locals alike, thanks to its flavorful dishes and consistent quality [1]. Its convenient downtown location makes it a go-to for both students and visitors exploring Tallahassee's food scene.
If you're near FSU, Tequila Tribe is just one of several great dining options offering delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Tallahassee's dining spots near FSU offer plenty of affordable choices for every taste, from Japanese hibachi at Roboto Tokyo Grill to Italian favorites at Bella Bella. These eateries serve up delicious meals at prices that won't break the bank, making them a great fit for students, locals, and visitors alike.
If you're staying at BOB Hotels Tallahassee, you'll find these restaurants just a short trip away. Whether you're in the mood for sushi at Jasmine Café, classic Southern comfort food at Maple Street Biscuit Company, or late-night calzones from Doughlicious, there’s something to satisfy every craving. With meals starting at just $6 and most dishes under $15, eating well near FSU is easy and affordable [1].
These spots don’t just keep costs low - they also highlight the variety and quality that make Tallahassee’s food scene worth exploring. Dining near FSU combines convenience, flavor, and value, giving you plenty of reasons to dig in.
