If you know Edmonds, you probably know it’s great for so many things: epic views, oodles of art, community events almost every week…but it’s definitely not known (yet) for cheap eats.
As of this writing, cheap eats are hard to find in Edmonds, especially downtown. But we’ve got your back. We’ve tried all the places and found the best cheap lunches in Edmonds. We’ve also found the all-around best deals on on-the-run food, whether you’re eating it for lunch or another time. We don’t control your feeding schedule, but we do exist to help you live your best life, and that includes food and drink tips. See: Our coffee guide, breakfast guide, happy hour guide, and more.
Best Cheap Eats in Edmonds, WA
So, take this as your next step to eating well in Edmonds. It’s our guide to budget-friendly dining around town, and we reserve the right to update it as we come upon new places and dishes we love. It highlights affordable restaurants, casual spots, and takeaway options for people who want a good meal without spending a ton. It focuses on value, variety, and convenience.
Without much further ado, let’s dig in.
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12 Cheap Places to Eat in Edmonds
- 5 Corners Teriyaki: 5 Corners is about a five-minute drive from Workhorse and houses our favorite teriyaki spot. Hot take: It is better than the Edmonds Toshi’s by a long shot. Service is fast, and you can call in (or submit a mobile to-go order) before heading over. We’re big fans of their yakisoba and teriyaki chicken meals.
- CommonGrounds: We said it in our coffee guide, and we’ll say it again here: CommonGrounds at the Edmonds Waterfront Center is super underrated, and it’s just steps from Workhorse. Get a $5 sandwich, wrap, or inexpensive chia pudding from their to-go case, order a drink special (because why not), and give yourself a little beach walk while you’re out. You deserve it.
- Dick’s Drive-In: Right on Highway 99 by Winco (another great place for cheap eats) sits the iconic Dick’s Drive-In. We would not travel with this food, but if you have 30 minutes, $5, and a hankering for a Dick’s Deluxe, well, it’s legendary for a reason. Just drive back to the space with your windows down to air out your car, and you’ll be fine.
- Fat Pig BBQ: No lie, we would eat at Fat Pig BBQ in Perrinville every day if that choice wasn’t sure to clog our arteries more quickly than we would prefer (everything in moderation, except for quality time in Edmonds!). They’re open for lunch, and a go-to for gatherings of all sizes. Their small meals are about $14 after tax, but a double pulled pork sandwich is just $8. Plus, they have kids’ meals!
- Ferry Hot Dog Stand: It’s pretty punk rock that the hot dog stand at the Edmonds ferry lanes doesn’t really seem to have an official name. Google calls it “Terminal Caffeine & Hot Dogs,” and if that’s their LLC name, well, we love that they’re so specific and clear. Many businesses could stand to learn that lesson! Anyway, their jumbo dogs are just $5, tax included. This is another place that is just steps from Workhorse, so if you need something super quick, pop over. We know John does (see video :))
- Johnny Mo’s: This isn’t highly publicized, but insiders know that Johnny Mo’s offers a “Big Lunch Energy” weekday lunch special on cheese and pepperoni slices: Just $2 a pop. They also have $15 large pizzas during weekday lunch if you’re feeding a small group. Check their board inside, too, because they sometimes pair those slices with a pop for a meal deal.
- Kuzmas Fish Market: Not only is Kuzmas an incredible fishmonger, but it’s also got fresh ahi poke that you can take for a lunch bowl. They’ll scoop all their goodies on a bed of steaming white rice for you. It’s a little cheaper than Ono Poke (another fave of ours at Westgate Village) and just as good. We’re including Kuzmas instead of Ono here because it’s a little less busy, but pick your poison!
- Maize & Barley: Many people know Maize & Barley for its truly fabulous rotation of drinks, but this small spot on Main also shines for scratch food (papas and tacos are standouts, and are sub $10). Caribbean-inspired dishes abound and are always rotating. Check their board and prepare to be amazed. They’re open for lunch and often less busy for dining than their neighbors are. Plus, they have been known to make in-house hot sauces.
- PCC: Who doesn’t love a grocery store salad bar? PCC at Westgate Village has a huge, healthy variety. They have everything from farro salads to sushi spreads to hot pizza slices right out of the oven. Might as well grab a cookie while you’re there, too. Not to mention, their membership is for a lifetime ($60!) and gives you free food and other great deals every month.
- The Red Twig: For a quick hit, grab a $6 snack box from The Red Twig right downtown, which is known for its fresh, healthy, and delicious food. They sometimes offer leftover breakfast burritos for a discount come lunch, too. And a small chicken Caesar salad to go is just $12.
- Rise and Shine Bakery: If you’re drooling over the idea of a bahn mi (same), check out Rise & Shine on Highway 99. Their bread is always fresh and toasty, and the servings are generous. Alternatively, if you’re closer to Lynnwood or want to decide where you want to source your favorite bahn mi, Yeh Yeh’s is also great and not much further up the road.
In a big pinch? We have a vending machine in the garage with several cheap eats. You don’t have to go far to feel satiated on a budget. Workhorse isn’t only a place to work—it’s a place to find true community. We’re always happy to be your food concierges, sure, but we’re here for lots more.
Check out our membership types to find your best fit, or just keep coming back for our food recs. We’re fine with that, too.
Have you eaten at any of these spots? What’s your favorite?
