5 Cheap Lunches Under $10 in Durham, NC

(NOTE: this article is based on prices from October 2026.)

The economy. Always something going on.

But just because the economy is down and gas prices are up doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a lunch out once in a while. Here are some cheap and affordable lunches you can get here in Durham for under $10. Note that this doesn’t include tax and tip for the most part, but all of these should come out to under $15 with those numbers added.

King’s Sandwich Shop

701 Foster St, Durham, NC 27701; website

A staple in Durham cuisine for a reason, King’s is also generous enough to not have upped their prices too much despite rapid inflation. You can get a single patty burger for about $7.95, or a pulled pork sandwich, BLT, fried bologna, crispy or grilled chicken, or country fried steak sandwich for under $10. 

Portions are decent too. It won’t be the biggest sandwich in the world, but it’s enough for lunch, and certainly rich enough to make you satisfied. If you have a few extra dollars to spend, the chili cheese fries are a pretty good side, with a small portion being under $5.

This is also a rare spot that is both cheap AND downtown. Not many of those left.

Mr. Shark Fish and Chicken

3825 S Roxboro St Unit 135, Durham, NC 27713; menu

When I lived in South Durham as a recent grad, my roommates and I would frequent Mr. Shark almost once a week. I almost want to gatekeep this spot, but they deserve the recognition. Their fried chicken (and other fried foods) tend to have a thinner and intensely seasoned crispy layer, while maintaining the juiciness of the meat inside. Plus, their fries are the light and crispy “psoriasis fries” (for those in the know for this phrase. this moniker is so unappetizing and yet the best kind of fries in the world).

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, you can get 3 pieces of fried fish (the type depends on the day) and two generous sides for $9.49. Trust me when I say this is filling. Their fish sandwiches are also under $7, and a 6 piece wings and a side will be $7.99. 

Again, would love to gatekeep this spot, but the people deserve to know.

Fonda Lupita

905 W Main St Ste 21A, Durham, NC 27701; website

If you’re craving Mexican, check out Fonda Lupita for a quick and easy casual lunch.

Tacos are only $3.75 each for classic flavors like chicken, pastor, chorizo, or veggies, and cost $1-2 more for steak, birria, or other premium flavors. Plus, on Tuesdays, tacos are only $2, so you can get 3-4 tacos and still manage an under-$10 meal.

They also feature a full salsa bar, so if you’re trying to get a little more bang for your buck, there’s always some salsa and toppings.

Li Ming’s Global Mart

3400 Westgate Dr, Durham, NC 27707; info

Is it in a grocery store? Yes. Is it delicious? Yes. Is it cheap? Yes.

Don’t sleep on the Li Ming’s hot bar. You can get rice and 2-3 dishes, or a variety of noodle dishes for under $10. The portions are decent, and the food is authentic and delicious. Plus, you can get your grocery run in at the same time.

I would advise you to bring cash if you have it—while not technically required, it does make checking out easier. If you don’t have cash, you’ll buy a meal ticket in the normal grocery checkout line.

Gym Tacos

102 City Hall Plaza, Durham, NC 27701; also has Raleigh locations; website

Taco places are good for a cheaper lunch, since each one will typically be under $5. Such is the case at Gym Tacos. With lots of taco varieties, ranging from vegetarian to very meaty and protein-filled, this place will satisfy your craving.

I will grant that two tacos isn’t a ton of food if you have a big appetite, but as far as taco places go, at least Gym Tacos has fairly reasonable portions without anemic fillings.

It’s also conveniently right downtown with lots of seating space, so if you need a quick but comfortable spot for lunch, here’s the place to go.

I know affordability and inflation have some dire outlooks right now, but hopefully these options give you an opportunity to eat out right here in Durham without breaking the bank.

If you’re into cheap food, don’t forget to check out the deals calendar!