Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy Store in Oklahoma City is an Oklahoma institution serving burgers, fresh dairy products, and hand-dipped ice cream at low prices.
Editorially verified June 26, 2026 by Lewis Vaughan, TableJourney editor. Source.
Must order: Fresh double cheeseburger; hand-dipped ice cream cone
Tip: Braum's uses dairy fresh from its own Oklahoma farm. The grocery section sells produce, cheese, and milk cheaper than supermarkets.
Address: 1204 NW 17th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Barrios Fine Mexican Dishes in Oklahoma City delivers a refined Mexican dining experience in Midtown at prices that compare well to casual chain restaurants.
Order: Lunch combo plate; house margarita on the rocks
Tip: The lunch specials offer the best value in the house. Combo plates come with rice, beans, and a drink for under $15.
Kaiser's Grateful Bean Cafe in Oklahoma City serves generous counter-service sandwiches, soups, and baked goods at everyday affordable prices in Midtown.
Order: House turkey sandwich; daily soup
Tip: Kitchen closes at 16:00 daily. Best for a budget midday meal. The homemade bread is exceptional.
Waffle House in Oklahoma City is open 24 hours daily, serving waffles, hash browns, and eggs at any hour, making it the most reliable all-night budget meal.
Order: Pecan waffle; scattered smothered covered hash browns
Tip: The best time to visit is 02:00-05:00 for the most authentic late-night diner experience in OKC.
Barrios Fine Mexican Dishes in Oklahoma City delivers a refined Mexican dining experience in Midtown at prices that compare well to casual chain restaurants.
Order: Lunch combo plate; house margarita on the rocks
Tip: The lunch specials offer the best value in the house. Combo plates come with rice, beans, and a drink for under $15.
OSO Paseo in Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District serves affordable Baja-style tacos and Mexican street food in a walk-in setting with bold flavors and value.
Order: Street tacos two-for-one; agua fresca
Tip: Walk-ins only, the tacos are generously filled and two make a satisfying meal for under $10.
Kaiser's Grateful Bean Cafe in Oklahoma City serves generous counter-service sandwiches, soups, and baked goods at everyday affordable prices in Midtown.
Order: House turkey sandwich; daily soup
Tip: Kitchen closes at 16:00 daily. Best for a budget midday meal. The homemade bread is exceptional.
Tucker's Onion Burgers in Oklahoma City serves the Depression-era smash burger with thin beef patties, caramelized onions, and American cheese on a bun.
Order: Oklahoma onion smash burger; crispy tater tots
Tip: Expect a short wait at peak lunch hours. The 23rd Street location is the most local-feeling of the multiple OKC spots.
Pho Cuong Restaurant in Oklahoma City's Asian District is the go-to spot for budget Vietnamese pho, ladled out in generous bowls with rich bone broth.
Order: Pho tai (rare beef); spring rolls
Tip: Arrive early on weekdays as this is a favorite lunch spot for the neighborhood. Mondays are closed.
