3 Buck Bites: New York Meals Under $3.99

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Updated: June 05, 2009

Remember the days of throwing a handful of change down on the counter and saying, "What can I get for this?" We do. Partly because we said it just last week! We're allowed to, thanks to our new frugal foodie lookbook, 3 Buck Bites, a go-to guide for meals under $3.99. From adventurous ethnic eats to classic standards, you'd be surprised how far you can stretch those quarters you found between the couch cushions. Here are a few highlights. And if you've got some of your own share them with us--you could be featured next!

(Photo: Kanwal Ullah)

3 Buck Bites in New York

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended 'inoteca
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    98 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002 (map)

    MASCARPONE BRUSCHETTE FOR $3: "This is by far the best of 'inoteca's eleven bruschette toppings. Luscious mascarpone cheese is embellished with a dollop of sticky sweet fig preserves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a twist of cracked black pepper for some spice. It's a perfect balance of sweet and savory in three luxurious mouthfuls." - Debbie Lee, I Am Debbie Lee

  2. 2 3.5 Star Rating: Average Dragon Land Bakery
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    125 Walker St, New York, NY 10013 (map)

    PORK BUN FOR $1: "It's always fresh at the bakery and served slightly warm. The bread is soft and delicious! And the pork is sweet and definitely not lacking! It's a great light lunch on those busy days that I need a quick cheap eat! Located on the corner of Baxter Street and Walker Street in Chinatown." - Monique Rodriguez, Food Snob

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Roll-N-Roaster Pickup
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    2901 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235 (map)

    CORN FRITTERS FOR $2.95: Sweet and creamy with whole kernels of corn inside, thin and crispy outside, piping hot, and not a bit oily makes this a most beautiful bite." - Jessica and Lon, Food Mayhem

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Rosario's Pizza
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    173 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 (map)

    CHEESEBURGER PIZZA FOR $3.25: "OK so, it's a bit much I know, but hello, it's a pizza and cheeseburger together! What's not to like? It's also huge, so will fill you up for a mere $3.25. Best eaten drunk and at 3am." - Shirley Chow, 3 Buck Bites

  5. 5 Saragosa Mexican Deli-Grocery
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    215 Ave A, New York, NY 10009 (map)

    SOFT SHELL CHICKEN TACO FOR $3: "Pop in for some gum at this Mexican reprieve in the East Village and you'll find yourself staring down fresh mangoes, tamarind, weathered looking jalapeños, and dried chipotles. The señora behind the counter serves a rotating menu of delicious Mexican favorites like tacos and burritos stuffed with chicken or beef and thankfully lacking in Brooklyn lines and skinny jeans. The taco de pollo is piled high with queso blanco, lettuce, and a slice of lime. Grab a Modelo, take a seat at one of the card tables and dig in. Don't forget the "muchas gracias señora" on your way out." - Anjuli Ayer, A Smart Mouth