Best and Inexpensive Takeout in San Jose, California

San Jose boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a wide array of delicious and affordable takeout options. Whether you're craving authentic Mexican, flavorful Vietnamese, savory Middle Eastern, or classic American fare, you'll find numerous choices that cater to both your taste buds and your budget. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the best and most inexpensive takeout spots in San Jose, combining the recommendations from multiple sources to provide a detailed overview.

Mexican Cuisine

San Jose is home to numerous excellent Mexican eateries, known for their flavorful dishes and generous portions at affordable prices. Here are some standout options:

• La Victoria Taqueria: A local favorite with multiple locations, La Victoria is renowned for its "Orange Sauce" and a wide variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their carne asada and al pastor options are particularly popular. The super burrito is a must-try, and the consistent quality and value make it a top choice.
• Tacos El Grullense: This spot is famous for its authentic Mexican tacos, especially the carne asada and al pastor. They offer affordable prices and a genuine taste of Mexico.
• Tacos El Compa: Known for their tasty tacos and burritos, Tacos El Compa offers generous portions at low prices, making it a local favorite for authentic Mexican food.

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese cuisine is well-represented in San Jose, with many restaurants offering delicious and affordable options, particularly pho and banh mi.

• Pho Kim Long: Renowned for their flavorful pho, as well as other Vietnamese dishes like vermicelli bowls and rice plates. They offer authentic and hearty meals at budget-friendly prices.
• Pho 90 Degree: Known for its delicious and affordable Vietnamese noodle soup, it's a popular takeout option in the area.
• Pho 84: A popular choice for Vietnamese pho and other traditional dishes, known for generous portions at a low price.
• Bun Bo Hue An Nam: Specializing in Bun Bo Hue, a spicy Vietnamese noodle soup, this place offers hearty portions at budget-friendly prices.
• Pho Y #1: Offers large portions of affordable pho and rice plates with quick service.
• Banh Mi Oven: An affordable spot near San Jose State University, offering Vietnamese specialty sandwiches and garlic bread. Their banh mi is particularly praised for its unique mayo.
• Bánh Mì Brothers: Known for its fantastic Vietnamese sandwiches (bánh mì) that are delicious and budget-friendly.
• Huong Lan Sandwich: Offers a variety of sandwiches at an affordable price, with most choices costing just $2.75, making it a great spot for trying different flavors without breaking the bank.
• Lee's Sandwiches: Known for very affordable Vietnamese sandwiches (Banh Mi) with quick service and multiple locations.

Middle Eastern Cuisine

For those craving Middle Eastern flavors, San Jose has several excellent options that offer great value.

• Falafel's Drive-In: A famous local spot known for its delicious falafel, gyro plates, and fresh salads. Their orange chicken and fresh pita are also crowd-pleasers. They offer generous portions at reasonable prices and have a longstanding reputation in the community.
• The Halal Guys: Famous for their gyro, chicken, and falafel platters served with their signature white and red sauces. They offer tasty and filling meals that are perfect for a quick and affordable takeaway.
• La Mediterranean: Known for its delicious Mediterranean dishes, including wraps, salads, and entrees at reasonable prices.

Pizza

Pizza lovers will find several great options in San Jose, offering both slices and whole pies at reasonable prices.

• A Slice of New York: Known for its high-quality New York-style pizza, with two slices costing less than $10. They also offer a lunch special with free salad or drink with two slices.
• Pizza My Heart: Known for its delicious slices and whole pizzas, this pizza joint offers a good deal and is a local favorite. They offer high-quality pizza without breaking the bank, perfect for sharing.

Other Notable Options

San Jose's diverse food scene also includes a variety of other cuisines and unique options:

• Punjab Cafe: Offers a variety of Indian dishes, including appetizers, vegetarian entrees, and lamb entrees. It's a top 10 delivery spot in San Jose.
• Egghead Sando Cafe: A budget-friendly option with multiple locations, known for its sandwiches and coffee. It's a popular choice for affordable meals.
• Paik’s Noodle: Features affordable noodles with a variety of toppings, including black bean sauce and chewy noodles. It's a favorite among locals for its flavorful and affordable dishes.
• Bun Beo ToLan: Specializes in bun beo, which are rice cakes topped with dried shrimp and scallions. They offer 50 pieces for $9, making it an excellent value for an appetizer or meal.
• Olioli Hawaiian BBQ: Offers a variety of Hawaiian barbecue options, including the Loco Moco, which is a mini version for under $12. It's a great spot for affordable and flavorful meals.
• Wok to Walk: Ideal for quick and customizable stir-fried noodles and rice dishes that won't break the bank.
• Korean BBQ Taco Truck: A food truck that serves a fusion of Korean BBQ and Mexican tacos, providing a unique and affordable takeout experience.
• Sushi Confidential: Offers reasonably priced sushi rolls and bento boxes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Kahuna's: Great for Hawaiian cuisine, this place offers poke bowls and other island favorites that are both tasty and affordable.
• Ragazza Food Truck: Offers a unique fusion of flavors with dishes like BBQ meats, rice bowls, and flavorful sides. Check local listings for current food truck locations.
• Orenchi Ramen: Offers rich and flavorful ramen bowls, including options like Tonkotsu and Miso Ramen, along with appetizers like gyoza.
• Ike's Love & Sandwiches: Wide variety of creative and classic sandwiches, customizable with numerous bread, meat, and topping options.
• Smoke Eaters: Known for wings and American food with good portions and competitive prices.
• Back A Yard Caribbean Grill: Offers Jamaican cuisine, known for jerk chicken, with good portions and reasonable prices.
• Tandoori Oven: Offers Indian food with good portions and affordable lunch specials, with multiple locations.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals

• Check for Specials: Many restaurants offer daily specials, combo meals, or discounts for takeout orders.
• Use Delivery Apps: Services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub often have promotions or discounts that can help save money.
• Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Some places may offer lower prices or better deals during lunch hours or weekdays.
• Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs or newsletters to receive exclusive discounts and offers from your favorite spots.

Neighborhoods with a Variety of Inexpensive Takeout Options

• Downtown San Jose: Offers a concentration of diverse eateries, from Asian to Latin American cuisines.
• Japantown: Great for authentic Japanese and other Asian cuisines.
• Willow Glen: Features charming shops and a variety of takeout-friendly restaurants.
• Berryessa/North San Jose: Home to a mix of ethnic restaurants offering affordable takeout options.

With this comprehensive list, you're sure to find the perfect inexpensive takeout option in San Jose to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your meal!