How to Eat in Venice Florida on a Budget

Are you planning a visit to Venice, FL anytime soon? If so, you’ll probably want to know what affordable places there are to eat. After all, it can get pretty expensive when you’re out on the town trying to find something good and cheap at the same time. On the flip side, LOCALS, are you getting tired of your meals costing $50+ just to get something yummy? Read on for some great budget-friendly ideas for meals and snacks when you’re in Venice.

Dining on a Budget in Venice, Florida

How to Eat in Venice Florida on a Budget

Eating out in Venice, FL can be expensive if you don’t know where to go or what to order. With so many restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from, it can feel overwhelming when deciding where to eat. Thankfully there are a few tricks to ensure you don’t spend all your money on food. This post will help you find cheap places to eat in Venice and save money while doing so.

Let’s face it; food is expensive! And eating out at restaurants every day of the week isn’t exactly affordable for most people. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to give up eating out completely. There are ways to eat out in Venice on a budget and still have enough money left over for other activities or expenses. Read on for the best restaurant deals in Venice.

Happy Hours and Drink Specials

Family Meal Deals

Kids Eat Free

Broke but Bougie: Get The Best Bang For Your Buck!

Yummies Donuts and BBQ

If you’re looking for a sweet treat to start your morning, Yummies is the place to be. Not only are their donuts fresh, warm, and delicious, but these handcrafted donuts range in price from 1.79 to 5.95. Many may say this is a high price, but when you see the high quality and how HUGE they are, you’ll gladly take them. Even better though, on Saturday they also serve BBQ! If you want a full meal, you can order sandwiches like the infamous “Sticky Pig” pulled pork on a glazed cinnamon bun or indulge in their other smoked meats or side dishes. I would also recommend trying their Piggy Tails, a hefty amount of ribbon sliced french fries topped with pulled pork or beef brisket and then topped with cheese, green onions and sour cream for under $10!

Local Spot 941

Discover affordable dining in Venice without breaking the bank at Local Spot 941, a fantastic fast-casual restaurant that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Nestled in the Ark Plaza alongside Yummies Donuts & BBQ, Local Spot 941 offers a comforting menu of familiar and beloved dishes. One of the greatest places in Venice to find budget-friendly meals, owned and operated by a local family: Dad and son run the back of the house, while Mom and daughter manage the front!

Open Monday to Friday from 11am to 8pm, and Saturday from 11am to 4pm, Local Spot 941 has curated a lineup of weekly specials that will leave your taste buds delighted and your wallet happy. Since they opened at the very end of 2022, they have quickly risen to immense popularity to become a hometown favorite, especially for their Famous Reuben Tuesdays! They boast to have the best Reuben sandwich around, and our entire family agrees. (I’m also slightly obsessed with their tater tots…)

$10 Weekly Specials

Monday: Any Wrap
Tuesday: Reubens or Corned Beef Sandwiches
Wednesday: Any Philly
Thursday: Any Burger
Friday: Grouper Reuben or Grouper Wrap
Saturday: Changes Weekly

Big Mike’s Pizza

If you love pizza, you’ll be happy to know that there are quite a few places in Venice that offer it on the cheap. One of the most popular is Big Mike’s Pizza. Big Mike’s has many different types of pizzas to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. They also have pastas, salads, appetizers, calzones and strombolis, so you can get a little variety if you like. Take advantage of their lunch special, 2 slices and a drink for only $7!

Bodrum Restaurant

Various appetizers like Sigara Borek, Mezze Platter and Pita are Affordable Options to Share With Friends For Lunch!

While the prices are higher for dinner, you can still experience the extraordinary flavors that Bodrum has to offer with their lunch specials. The various pitas like the Gyro, Chicken, Bodrum or Falafel are generously portioned and are served with fries for between $12-$15. You can also add a cup of soup for only $4.50 and if the soup of the day is the yellow lentil soup, you will NOT want to skip that!

Lunch Specials: The lunch menu is a haven for those seeking value. Items like the Falafel Pita Wrap and the Sucuk Pita Wrap, both priced at $13.50, offer a substantial and flavorful meal. They come with sides like French Fries, adding to their value.
Appetizers: The Cold Appetizers, such as Mom’s Potato Dip, Dolmades, and Kisir, each at $9.99, are not only affordable but also come with pita bread, making them a filling option.
Sample Mezze Platter: For a more varied experience, the Sample Mezze Platter at $16.99 offers a selection of three items from a choice of Hummus, Tzatziki, Kisir, Potato Dip, Dolmades, Babaganush, and Ezme. This is a great way to sample multiple dishes at a reasonable price.
Soups and Sides: The Puree of Yellow Lentil Soup for $7.99 is a heartwarming choice, and pairing it with a side like the Homemade Turkish Pita Bread at $1.99 can make for a light yet satisfying meal.
Desserts: For those with a sweet tooth, desserts like Baklava and Kazandibi, each at $7.95, offer a delightful end to your meal without being too heavy on the wallet.

In short, Bodrum Restaurant in Venice offers a variety of options that cater to budget-conscious diners without compromising on the rich, authentic flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy the exploration of tastes!

Sicilia Italian Pizzeria

While Sicilia is widely known as a Pizzeria, there’s another item on the menu that shines as something budget friendly for the family to enjoy. It’s called the Pane Condito, It’s this scrumptious sandwich made with freshly baked ciabatta bread soaked in extra virgin olive oil and tomato juice all crisped up in the oven with parmesan cheese and herbs on top to make a crispy bite. Each one has a base of sliced tomatoes and mozzarella, but then you add two toppings of your choice for $21.99. This sandwich can feed 2-4 people and feels like an indulgence but is packed with fresh and healthy ingredients. If you manage to save room for dessert, you can grab 3 mini cannoli or any of the desserts for $6.50 for a sweet ending for your meal to share.

Le Petit Jardin Cafe

If you’re looking for something a little more upscale and unique, check out Le Petit Jardin Cafe. This tiny little cafe will amaze you with the quality of their fresh baked scones and delicate crepes. With breakfast prices under $11 for most dishes, you can indulge in the most delicious meal without breaking the bank. It’s one of our favorite places to have breakfast in Venice! If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience, they do offer afternoon teas by reservation on Fridays and Saturdays between 2-4pm starting at $18.99 per person with a child’s option for $12.99.

Le Petit Jardin Cafe, nestled in the heart of Venice, Florida, offers a charming array of options that cater to both the palate and the wallet. Here’s a glimpse into their menu:

Quiche du jour ($12.99) – A classic, freshly made quiche served with soup or salad.
Brie Plate ($13.99) – A delightful combination of Brie cheese, fruit, herb toast, and raspberry jam.
Crepes (around $12.99) – A variety of crepes, such as Le Crepe Jambon, Le Crepe Ratatouille, and Le Crepe Spinach Soufflé, each offering a unique and flavorful experience.
Croissant Basket ($12.99) – A flaky, buttery croissant with a choice of filling, accompanied by fresh fruit and banana cake.
Sandwiches (around $11.99-$12.99) – Options like The French Connection, Le Vegetal Burger, and The French Riviera, each offering a blend of fresh ingredients and unique flavors.
Salads (around $12.99-$12.50) – Fresh and inviting salads like Le Grilled Chicken Salade and Soupe and Salade, combining fresh greens with a variety of toppings and dressings.

Gold Rush BBQ

If you’re craving some Southern barbecue, you’ll want to head over to Gold Rush BBQ. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also very affordable. They offer a weekday special of a pulled pork sandwich for only $9. One of the things they are most known for is their nationally sold brand of BBQ sauce known as Stevia Sweet BBQ. It’s low in sugar but high in flavor. I always grab as much extra sauce as I can to use at home too! If you’re looking to feed a crowd, Gold Rush also offers a “Pack Mule” menu where you can buy the meats and sides by the pound to bring home for the whole family. This is also a rare find: All You Can Eat options on different days of the week that are served with your choice of two sides and cornbread.

Tuesday: Baby Back Ribs
Thursday: St Louis Spare Ribs
Friday: Whole Fried Catfish
Sunday: BBQ Chicken

Joy’s Kouzine

A local favorite, Joy’s Kouzine reopened earlier this year with the original owners back in charge. With a menu packed full of delicious offerings at budget friendly prices, everyone can have a delicious meal that won’t break the bank. With the exception of a few larger platters, the entire menu is under $10!

BrewzaBagels

When you need something cheap, filling and delicious, BrewzaBagels is a winner. Looking for a simple bagel with cream cheese? Only $1.49! Plus, they have a variety of specialty cream cheese spreads to amp up the flavors. With a variety of sandwiches available for breakfast, from a simple bagel with egg and cheese for $4.99 all the way up to their “Manhattan” with nova lox, capers, red onion, tomato and cream cheese on your choice of bagel for $10.99. Lunchtime, slices of pizza are only $3 (whole pies available as well) or one of their pizza bagels for $1.99-$2.99. Their sandwiches for lunch are named with a nod to NYC, with items like the “Hell’s Kitchen” (corned beef, saurkraut, swiss cheese and Russian dressing) for $8.99 and many more. Sandwiches range from $2.99-$8.99.

Tikka Indian Cuisine

Much like Bodrum, the lunch specials at Tikka Indian Cuisine are where it’s at for a spectacular meal at a budget-friendly price. The lunch specials include a great mix of an entree choice, a samosa, papad, rice, naan, and a sweet rice pudding for between $12-$15 depending on what your choice of entree is. The lunch menu is available only for Dine-In and is served until 2:30.

Irma’s Tacos, Craft Beer and Tequila Bar

Our family loves Irma’s Tacos in Wellen Park (click to read more about our visit!). While it can be pricey very quickly, if you make a plan and know what to expect, you can enjoy a budget-friendly meal! One of the main ways to save at Irma’s is by taking advantage of their Taco Tuesday specials, they choose 2 different tacos as a special for $1 off with a Chef’s special that changes weekly along with having happy hour all day. You can also enjoy their Sunday Brunch menu from 11-2 every Sunday for between $13-$16 for entrees. If you’re looking to stay cheap, you can pick two tacos for between $9-11(They are either $4.50-$5.50), or choose to turn any taco into a bowl with rice and beans for an additional $5.50 for a hearty meal.

Chaz 51 Steakhouse

Chaz 51 is a haven for steak and wine aficionados, a place where the sizzle of premium steaks meets the soothing swirl of a fine red. As a bistro that prides itself on offering high-quality, flavorful dishes, Chaz 51 presents a menu that is a symphony of carefully curated meats and accompaniments designed to delight the senses. It may seem like it is too expensive, but there are ways to enjoy Chaz 51 Steakhouse on a budget, especially with their new ALL YOU CAN EAT menu for $24.95 per person that includes bottomless tomato bisque, house or caesar salad with BBQ Chicken, Babyback Ribs, a combination of both or Fish and Chips. Meals are served with steak fries and broccoli as well!

Other Budget Friendly Items On The Dinner Menu:

Start with Small Plates: You could go for the Zucchini Fries for $8 or the Roasted Tomato Bisque for $9 as a light start that’s also easy on the wallet. You have the option to add a side house or Caesar salad for $5 more.
Sides as a Main: Consider ordering a side dish, like the Sautéed Spinach or Mushrooms, Tumeric Roasted Vegetables or Loaded Baked Potato for $7. Go with friends and grab a couple different side dishes to share!
Split an Entree: Extra plates are complementary, so spring for the lamb chops lollipop, mussels parisienne, sesame-crusted ahi tuna, or even the blue cheese filet mignon salad to enjoy with a friend.

Lounge Menu (Happy Hour Specials for extra savings):

Happy Hour Deals: Taking advantage of happy hour prices could be a good strategy. For instance, the Sriracha Shrimp and Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna are $13 each during happy hour.
Vegetable Flatbread: The Vegetable Flatbread is a hearty choice at the happy hour price of $12.

The Dugout

The Dugout blends the feel of an old-school diner with the variety of a casual grill. While you can catch a game here, it’s the hearty, homestyle meals that keep locals coming back. Nearly everything on the menu stays under $15, making it perfect for budget-conscious diners who still want generous portions.

Pretzel Sticks with Beer Cheese Dip – $9.95 for a salty snack with a warm, melty dip.
Chicken or Shrimp Quesadilla – $12.95 packed with peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
Naked Wings (8) – $14.95 with your choice of sauce and dip, ideal for sharing.
Build-Your-Own Burger – Starts at $12.95 and includes a half-pound burger or grilled chicken with customizable toppings.
Shrimp or Cod Basket – $14.95–$16.95, served with fries for a satisfying seafood fix.
Roast Beef Hash or Pot Roast Dinners – $12.95–$14.95 for a filling, comfort-food experience.

Whether you want diner-style breakfast, classic sandwiches, or fried seafood baskets, The Dugout keeps it simple, tasty, and affordable. Check out their current offerings at thethedugout.com.

Other Deals Around Venice:

Italian American Club of Venice: Only on Fridays from 4:30 PM -7 PM, no membership required. $15 per person or $7 for kids 10 and under. Get more info
- Adult: Garden Salad, Fresh Bread, Pasta and Your Choice of either 2 Meatballs, 2 Sausages, Combo of Meatball and Sausage, Chicken Parmigiana or Eggplant Parmigiana with Dessert and Coffee. Drinks, including beer and wine, are available for purchase, along with extras.
- Kids: 1 meatball or sausage with a bowl of pasta and a piece of cake
Briandi’s Restaurant – Early Bird Menu 5 pm – 6 pm
Burgundy Square Cafe: This cozy local spot in downtown Venice is a sleeper hit when it comes to weekday deals:
- Burger Mondays – Juicy, loaded burgers at unbeatable prices.
- Taco Tuesdays – A rotating selection of tacos with creative twists.
- Lobster Wednesdays – Surprisingly affordable lobster specials that make midweek feel like a celebration.
3 Bridges Brewing: Several items on the menu for lunch between $10-$13 with kids meals available as well. Dinner also has affordable options under $15 and shareable snacks to enjoy with friends for an enjoyable night out.

Looking For A Cheap Burger?

Discover The Best Burgers in Venice and Read About The Different Specials Available!

Now that you know a few of the best restaurants in Venice to eat on a budget, where are you going to go first?

How to Eat in Venice Florida on a Budget

Dining on a Budget in Venice, Florida